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A travel and lifestyle blog for female solo travelers who want to learn how to travel with confidence

The Ultimate Los Angeles Summer Bucket List

North America , Summer Travel / April 17, 2021 by Jade / 63 Comments

Looking for some things to do in Los Angeles? Check out this post for The Ultimate Los Angeles Summer Bucket List!

Table of Contents

California Bucket List Series

P.s. this is a post in my california bucket list series. here is the complete series:.

Malibu Itinerary: The Best Day Trip to Malibu: A One Day Itinerary

Malibu Racism: My Experience with Racism at El Matador Beach

L.A. Bucket List: The Ultimate Los Angeles Summer Bucket List

Los Angeles, or what I would prefer to call, The City of Angels, is one of the most popular tourist destinations around the world. As the entertainment capital, it’s home to many celebrities, actors, musicians and even athletes. I can’t even imagine what it would be like to run into a celebrity in this city. You’re so used to seeing them on TV, the thought of actually meeting one in person would feel so surreal. The Los Angelenos are so fortunate to live in a city where the weather is always sunny and the beach is never overrated.

Also, I’m not sure if you guys remember this movie but Starstruck , a Disney Channel Original Movie, is one of the many reasons why I fell in love with L.A. in the first place, that…and the TV show Jonas ! I can still remember listening to the song Something About The Sunshine by Sterling Knight in my head as well as L.A. Baby by the Jonas Brothers.

After listening to them both, who wouldn’t want to visit this city?!! Visiting L.A. is a once in a lifetime opportunity so you shouldn’t let it pass you by! If you’re planning to visit L.A. this summer, you’re in luck! This post has a list of 10+ things to do as well as places to see for every first timer.

The Hollywood Sign

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You’ve seen it in movies and you’ve seen it on TV, but in L.A… you now have the chance to see the iconic Hollywood Sign in person! Known as the worldwide symbol of the entertainment industry, the Hollywood Sign was originally built as an advertisement for the real estate development of Hollywoodland. It has now become an American landmark in the West Coast, attracting millions of tourists worldwide.

One of the best ways to get to this sign in person is by doing a traditional hike up one of it’s trails: Mt Hollywood, The Brush Canyon or the Caheunga Peak trail . The trail you choose is totally up to you but if you’re looking for an easy hike I would do Mt. Hollywood! The Cahuenga Peak is more for experienced hikers and the Brush Canyon one is pretty moderate.

Hollywood Walk of Fame

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Get ready to walk on stars as you visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame ! There are approximately 2,690 stars in the Walk of Fame and each one represents a person who made a huge contribution to the entertainment industry. You will see stars for people like Mandy Moore, Taraji P. Henson, Carrie Underwood, Tracy Morgan, and even Kevin Hart. The list goes on and on…! I would recommend making a list of the stars you want to see first before you come to visit this place. It can be really overwhelming seeing so many stars at once, so narrowing it down to your favorite celebrities will make it easier.

In-N-Out Burger

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Founded in California by Harry and Esther Snyder, In-N-Out Burger is a Christian owned fast food chain known for their high-quality burgers. I for one can attest to the fact that In-N-Out food definitely has the quality you can taste. When I tried In-N-Out for the first time, the food was so fresh even their milkshakes had a way of hitting the right spot. I even ordered something from their secret menu… which is pretty easy to find online .

Visiting In-N-Out Burger, is such a rite of passage if you’re visiting the West Coast for the first time. So you definitely don’t want to skip this place!

Universal Studios

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Universal Studios Hollywood is also a place you cannot miss while you’re in the City of Angels. As a flagship attraction, Universal Studios Hollywood will take you behind the scenes of the world’s biggest movie and television studios such as The Simpsons , Jurassic World and the Fast & the Furious ! You can also experience some immersive and thrilling rides at their movie-based Theme Park for Harry Potter and Despicable Me . For tickets, you can purchase a 1-Day pass from $99-129 or a Universal Express ticket from $179-279 ! Also, if you’re worried about your safety during COVID, Universal Studios has a lot of safety measures in place! To check them out please click the link here .

Griffith Observatory

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If you’re looking for a gateway to the cosmos, the Griffith Observatory might just be the place for you. As the most visited observatory in the world, this place gives visitors the opportunity they need to explore the outer space through telescopes, exhibits and live shows. In fact, you can even catch a spectacular view of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign just from being there. So, please try to visit if you can!

Santa Monica Pier

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As a large double-jointed pier, Santa Monica Pier is known for its concession stands, fishing areas and its small amusement park. This admission-free amusement park includes 12 rides, 14 games and a dining area for an unforgettable West Coast experience! You can get on rides such as the Pacific Wheel, the West Coaster or the Pacific Plunge. The games also range from Whac-A-Mole, Ring Toss and so many others. So, if you’re planning on visiting this pier there’s one travel tip you need to know. Just because the park is admission-free that doesn’t mean the rides are fair game. The rides and attractions at Santa Monica pier are priced individually so please make sure to have some cash on hand.

Grauman’s Chinese Theatre

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The Grauman’s Chinese Theatre is one of the most spectacular theaters in motion picture history. It was built in a partnership headed by Sid Grauman and it has been the home to many movie premieres ever since. In fact, it has even been said that you can’t visit L.A. without visiting this theater. Not doing so, would be just as similar to visiting China without seeing the Great Wall. The theater is even known for having a forecourt that honors the hands and footprints of many well-known celebrities such as Jackie Chan, Whoopi Goldberg and even Eddie Murphy. If you need a map of where all of the footprints are located you can check one out here .

Paramount Pictures

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If you truly want an authentic experience in L.A., you must set aside some time to visit the beautiful Paramount Pictures Studios! The studio tour tends to be around 2 hours approximately and I’ve heard so many amazing things about it on Tripadvisor . On the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the different studio sets from many popular TV shows and movies. You definitely don’t want to miss out on this!

Griffith Park

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Griffith Park is actually right near the observatory I mentioned earlier and it’s actually one of the largest urban parks in North America! The park is actually five times the size of Central Park which is quite shocking to me. As a native New Yorker, I never thought anything could top Central Park. But boy was I wrong… If you still don’t believe me.. you might want to check out this place for yourself.

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As someone who’s been to Disney World twice, I would definitely love to know what all the hype is about. From what I’ve heard, Disney World is larger but… Disneyland has more rides. So, I guess it comes down to own your personal preference if you decided to go to Disneyland. I personally wouldn’t cancel out either park since they were both created by the same man with the same amount of magic that comes with it. So, if you’re in L.A. feel free to make a stop at Disneyland if you can.

Rodeo Drive

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If you’ve never heard of Rodeo Drive, it’s a famous street on Beverly Hills that’s known for its shopping district. You will find designers like Gucci, Armani, and Coco Chanel right along this street. In fact, it’s typically the place where you might spot a celebrity but I can’t necessarily guarantee that. All I know for sure is that this street is definitely worth the visit. You can window shop, take pictures or even ride the Beverly Hills trolley .

Venice Beach

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As one of L.A.’s famous beaches, Venice beach is well known for its Ocean Front Walk. It’s practically full of different vendors, performers, artists and even fortune tellers. So, in my opinion, try to imagine the streets of NYC (if you’ve been there) when you think about this place. Since it’s such a popular beach, anyone can use it as an opportunity to busk.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Los Angeles County Museum of Art (@lacma)

LACMA , also known as the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, is what I prefer to call the MOMA (a museum in NYC) on the West Coast! As the largest museum in the West, the LACMA is well known for its “Urban Light” sculpture. It was made by Chris Burden in 2008 and it’s been a well-known tourist attraction ever since. Please feel free to make a stop by this assemblage if you plan on crossing this place off your bucket list.

The Sunset Strip

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As a portion of Sunset Boulevard, the Sunset Strip is well known for its nightlife and music clubs. So, if you’re looking for a nice time out, Sunset Strip is where you need to go. If I were you, I would try to visit some of these spots:

Whisky A Go Go – Straight up live music venue
The Viper Room – Nightclub with a gritty vibe
Roxy Theatre – Legendary music venue

If you need some more info you can check out this site here !

Venice Canals

If you’re looking for the closest thing to Venice, Italy, in L.A. you might as well visit the Venice Canals near Venice beach. Built in 1905, these Italian-inspired canals were built with bridges and sidewalks for pedestrians. In my opinion, I think it’s a great place for a date night or a relaxing stroll. The area is peaceful, quiet and very tranquil.

A Cupcake ATM

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If you’ve never been to a Sprinkles Cupcake ATM before, L.A. is definitely the place to check one out. Sprinkles was actually debuted for having the world’s first Cupcake ATM and it’s been popular ever since. The ATM is 24/7 and it gets completely restocked throughout the day for your freshly baked needs. Feel free to check out the location below on the map if you’re interested in checking one out. If that location is too far away you can always check out some other locations here .

Warner Brothers Studio Tour

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Similar to Paramount Pictures, the Warner Brothers Studio Tour is definitely worth it! If you’re a huge Harry Potter fan, you’ll get the chance to step into the Wizarding World and see the real costumes and props used in the movies. The guided tour is 2 hours and the self-guided one is 1 hr. I would highly recommend getting your tickets online here first so that so you can get a $3 discount!

The Last Bookstore

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If you’re a bibliophile like me, you’re going to LOVE this place. The Last Bookstore, if you’re not too familiar with it, is LITERALLY a bookstore that’s decorated as a huge labyrinth of L.A.’s new, rare and used books. To me, I see this place as THE safe haven for any bibliophile visiting the city. Instead of relying on a book to escape from reality, walking into this bookstore will do it for you.

Angels Flight Railway

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Angels Flight is a funicular railway in Downtown L.A. that has two funicular cars running in the opposite directions of a shared cable. One of the reasons why this railway was created was because it was meant to be a practical way for pedestrians to avoid walking down one of L.A.’s steepest streets. Currently, the Angels Flight is still in operation from 6:45 a.m. to 10 p.m., seven days a week so I would highly recommend checking it out if you have the chance. This railway has even been featured in many movies like La La Land and The Muppets .

Los Angeles FAQs

As this bucket list comes to an end, I thought I would finish off this post with some frequently asked questions about L.A. and some sunnies from QUAY !

Do I need a car in LA?

Yes and no! If you’re able to rent a car in L.A., I would highly recommend it. Everyone in L.A. pretty much drives everywhere so it’s one of the best ways to get around. However, if you don’t know how to drive like me, there’s no need to fear. Uber and Lyft will be your 2 best friends!

Is Los Angeles dangerous?

As a whole, I feel like Los Angeles is a safe city! However, there are some particular neighborhoods you need to wary of… especially at night. These neighborhoods include Skid Row, Compton, Downtown L.A., and West Adams.

What’s the best L.A. neighborhood to stay in?

It’s really up to you on which neighborhood you choose to stay in but in my opinion I think Beverly Hills is the best. You can check out a list of some of their BEST hotels here !

In addition, if you’re feeling up to it, you can also do a Los Angeles Treehouse Rental instead too.

Overall, I hope you enjoyed this summer bucket list for L.A.! Let me know in the comments down below which place on this list intrigued you the most! I can’t wait to hear from you. 🙂

P.S. If you’re looking for some more content on Los Angeles, be sure to check out these amazing photo spots in L.A. !

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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!

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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.

Save more and experience more. Get a city pass before you travel.

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

Private Studio near the Hollywood Sign, Los Angeles

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.

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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.

hollywood sign road trip in southern california

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Griffith Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Griffith Observatory

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 5 – The Getty Museum

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Sunset Boulevard

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Warner Brothers Studio Tour Hollywood

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Groove and Original Farmers Market, Los Angeles

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 4 – The Venice Beach Boardwalk

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 5 – The Santa Monica Pier

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

USA Hostels Hollywood

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

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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.

Universal Studios Hollywood, Los Angeles

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.

Santa Barbara Wine Country Tour with Picnic Lunch

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!

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You can now buy The Broke Backpacker a coffee . If you like and use our content to plan your trips, it’s a much appreciated way to show appreciation 🙂

the broke backpacker team at the water temple in bali

Ashley Ryan

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The Ultimate Los Angeles Itinerary

Sunset at Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles

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

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

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

Palm tree lined roads in LA - a common view if you follow my Ultimate Los Angeles Itinerary

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

When Is The Best Time to Visit Los Angeles?

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

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

Tour Hollywood

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

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

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

Grab Lunch at Grand Central Market

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

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

Go Shopping in Beverley Hills

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

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

Go On A Walking Tour Of Los Angeles

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

Ride The Ferris Wheel At Pacific Park

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

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

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

Visit One Of LA’s Museums

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

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

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

Stroll Along Venice Beach Boardwalk

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

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

Walk along the boardwalk in Venice Beach - a must on any Los Angeles itinerary

Explore Griffith Park

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

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

Incredible views from Griffith Observatory, L.A.

Stay at a Luxurious Hotel in Los Angeles

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

The Peninsula Beverly Hills

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

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

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

Check availability and latest prices at the Peninsula Beverly Hills here

The Peninsula Beverly Hills, Los Angeles

Shutters on the Beach

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

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

Check availability and latest prices at Shutters on the Beach here

1 Hotel West Hollywood

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

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

Check availability and latest prices at 1 Hotel West Hollywood here

Tours in Los Angeles

Warner Bros. Studios Hollywood Tour

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

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

Check availability and latest prices here

Los Angeles Helicopter Night Flight

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

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

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

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Chloe Gunning

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

The Perfect 3, 4 or 5 Days in Los Angeles Itinerary

Last Updated on February 13, 2024

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Planning the perfect Los Angeles itinerary can be quite a difficult task. For such a large and iconic city — the second-largest in the entirety of the USA — LA lacks a lot of traditional tourist sites and can be incredibly difficult to navigate. Despite this, there is so much to do in the city that you can very easily fill 3, 4 or 5 days in Los Angeles and still feel as if you’ve barely scratched the surface.

Known for the film industry and its beautiful beaches, Los Angeles is also a dynamic and multi-cultural city with a lot of character. It can be hard to get to know a city like LA in just a few days, however, you can definitely get a good feel for this city over the course of this itinerary.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Los Angeles?

When determining how many days to spend in Los Angeles a better question may be to ask yourself how much time you have. LA has an infinite amount of activities and things to do so visitors could easily spend weeks and not get bored.

However, if you’re not the kind of person with unlimited time, planning to spend 3 days in LA is a good minimum if you want to get a good feel for the city and its top neighbourhoods and sites. Seeing Los Angeles in 3 days may feel kind of rushed, but you’ll still be able to cover a lot of ground and experience quite a lot.

If you have 4 days in LA, then this is a great amount of time to explore the city even deeper and spend a bit more time seeing some other neighbourhoods. And if you’re fortunate enough to have 5 days, you can use that final day to go on a day trip!

There are lots of places within easy reach of LA and it’s a great opportunity to explore more of Southern California.

In general, you’re going to want to allow for more than a weekend in Los Angeles and it’s safe to plan for at least 3 days in Los Angeles to really to the city justice.

Getting To & Around Los Angeles

Los Angeles is home to LAX – its own international airport that connects the city to innumerable destinations throughout USA and worldwide.

However, that is not the only airport that serves the city and if you’re flying from within the US, there’s a chance that you could arrive into Burbank or Long Beach airport, as well.

LA is even relatively accessible from John Wayne Airport in Santa Ana or Ontario Airport in San Bernardino County, however, it isn’t the closest option and you have to be willing to drive about an hour (or more, depending on the traffic) to reach the actual city of Los Angeles. You can also take a pre-booked transfer from the airport.

If you’re not flying, it is possible to arrive into LA via train – there are trains that connect Los Angeles to other cities in California. For instance, the train from San Diego takes about three hours and offers beautiful views of the Southern California coast. Trains arrive into Union Station in Downtown Los Angeles. You can view train schedules here.

Los Angeles is also a perfect stop on any California coastal road trip and a good jumping-off point if you’re driving north to San Francisco or south to San Diego .

Getting around LA can be a bit of a headache no matter how you plan to do it. An incredibly car-centric city, planning to rely on public transportation while visiting LA isn’t the best idea. There is a public transport system in the city, however, it isn’t that broad or reliable and can be tricky to navigate.

Los Angeles is very spread out and not super walkable, so if you don’t plan on driving yourself, then your best bet is going to be to rely on ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft to get around the city.

The itinerary below does concentrate on different neighbourhoods each day, however, it is still going to be easiest to get around LA if you have a car. Driving in Los Angeles can seem a bit daunting — especially considering that Angelenos have a reputation for being aggressive drivers — but it is the most convenient and easiest way to get around the city.

Keep in mind that LA also gets terrible traffic and it’s hard to really convey just how gridlocked the city can be until you’ve experienced it yourself.

So even though something looks close on a map, you may spend a lot of time getting to your destination because of the traffic conditions. The nature of visiting Los Angeles is that you will likely be spending a fair amount of time in the car in transit.

If you want to rent a car while in Los Angeles, consider browsing Rentalcars.com in order to find deals across a number of major rental companies.

3, 4 or 5-Day Los Angeles Itinerary

Whether you have 3, 4 or 5 days to explore LA, this itinerary builds upon each day. This itinerary will take you through some of the most iconic sites and neighbourhoods in the City of Angels.

If you plan on visiting many of the paid attractions listed below, consider purchasing a Los Angeles Go City Pass to save money on entrance fees!

Day 1 – Hollywood

Being our time in LA by exploring Hollywood – the heart of the film industry. You can spend your morning taking in some views before heading down to enjoy the sites on Hollywood Boulevard and, if you’re interested, take a studio tour!

Griffith Park & the Hollywood Sign

There are few attractions in Los Angeles (and really in the entirety of US cities) as iconic as the famed Hollywood Sign on Mount Lee. Originally erected in 1923 to advertise a new housing development, it has become a focal point of the area ever since.

If you want to get some of the best views of the Hollywood sign, it’s a great idea to head to the Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park.

From here, you can get a good view of Mount Lee and a panorama of Los Angeles below. And, if you’re looking to get even more active, there are also countless hiking trails within Griffith Park where you can get even better views and end up closer to the sign. You can also take a guided hike .

I recommend getting here early – especially if you plan to hike as it can get pretty hot in LA depending on the season you’re visiting.

If you want to hike to the Hollywood Sign itself instead of simply viewing it from Griffith Observatory, then there are a few trails you can choose from that range in difficulty — the Mount Hollywood Trail, the Brush Canyon Trail and the Cahuenga Peak Trail. There are also guided walking tours that take you to the top.

Make sure to set aside a couple of hours to dedicate to these hikes if that’s what you choose. In general, going out for a hike is one of the best things to do in LA.

Hollywood Boulevard & Walk of Fame

From Griffith Observatory, it’s only about a 10-minute drive to Hollywood Boulevard, home to countless iconic sites such as the Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre (formerly Grauman’s Chinese Theatre).

Hollywood Boulevard is incredibly touristy and is pretty much always packed with visitors, but is an essential stop on any first-timer’s trip to LA.

Make sure to take the time to walk along the Walk of Fame and scope out the stars of your favourite artists and celebrities. You can also take in all of the handprints in front of the Chinese Theatre.

There are plenty of other sites to take in here, as well, and it’s the perfect place for film fans and Hollywood history buffs.

Explore Hollywood or Take a Studio Tour

After hanging out on Hollywood Boulevard and seeing the sights there, you have a couple of options on what to do next.

You could opt to venture a bit further from the Walk of Fame and explore more of Hollywood on your own. Famous Sunset Boulevard is only one block south and you can also even mosy your way to Melrose Avenue.

Another very popular thing to do while in Hollywood is to go on a Studio Tour. If you want to both take in some cinema history and to see what film sets are like, there are a number of different studios in Hollywood that offer tours.

Some of the most famous include Warner Brothers , Paramount and even Universal Studios (the latter may be better to dedicate an entire day and include the theme park).

Day 2 – Venice & Santa Monica

If your first day in Los Angeles was dedicated to all of the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, plan to spend your second day taking in two of the city’s most popular beach areas – Venice and Santa Monica.

Venice Canals

Begin your day in the Venice neighbourhood in west Lost Angeles – so-called because the canals were designed to resemble the Italian city of the same name.

Venice was originally conceived as a development for a beach resort and several miles of canals were built in order to drain the marshes that originally inhabited the area.

Over the years, Venice has come to have a reputation of being a bohemian beach town with its own independent spirit, however, in more recent times it has become quite a coveted and expensive area of the city.

Before heading over to the iconic Venice Beach, make sure to take some time wandering around the Venice Canals. It’s a really beautiful area and a unique spot in the urban sprawl of Los Angeles.

Venice Beach

Mosy away from the canals and you will find the true draw of this neighbourhood – Venice Beach. This gorgeous stretch of soft, golden sand is one of the city’s top beaches but it is also well known for its iconic boardwalk.

Stretching for miles along the beach, the Venice Boardwalk is an expansive promenade that makes for some of the best people-watching you can find in the great Los Angeles area.

There is a lot to take in and explore in this area such as taking a food tour , however, you could also use this time to simply lounge on a beautiful Southern California beach.

Santa Monica

After enjoying Venice, it’s time to drive just a bit north to LA’s other incredibly famous beach neighbourhood – Santa Monica.

This upmarket area is well-known for the iconic Santa Monica Pier, a classic beach boardwalk amusement park that is filled with old-school carnival games, rides and a classic wooden roller coaster.

For those who don’t want to play at the pier, you can also opt to lounge on lovely Santa Monica Beach or take a surfing lesson . This is a beautiful soft sand beach that is perfect for sunbathing.

Away from the Pacific, the neighbourhood of Santa Monica itself is a great place to explore with plenty of great cafes, restaurants, bars and shops to browse.

Day 3 – Downtown LA

By this point, you’ve spent time in both Hollywood and exploring some of LA’s best beaches.

Now, on your third day, it’s time to head downtown and explore the urban centre of Los Angeles. If you love food, then you’re sure to love this day in LA. You can take a walking tour or a food tour of this area to learn more from a guide.

Arts District

Located on the edge of Downtown Los Angeles, the Arts District is a neighbourhood well worth exploring if you want to take in a bit of culture while visiting this Southern California city.

In a metropolis often derided in the US for lacking in culture, this is a neighbourhood that very much celebrates the incredible artistic nature of this city.

Whether you’re interested in taking in some incredible street art or murals or want to visit some museums, spend a few hours exploring the Arts District of LA. Not surprisingly, there are a number of galleries where you can explore some incredible art done by local artists, but there is more here than just that.

The Arts District is also home to some incredible restaurants, coffee shops and lots of craft breweries for those who fancy an artisan microbrew while on the trip to LA.

Little Tokyo

Located right on the cusp of the Arts District lies Little Tokyo, the historic heart of the Japanese-American community in LA. Home to what is actually the largest Japanese-American community in the entirety of the USA, this is a fascinating, historic neighbourhood to explore in Los Angeles and really outlines just how multicultural this incredible city is.

Those who want to learn more about this area and about Japanese Americans in general, then consider visiting the Japanese American National Museum.

And, if you’re looking for a more food-centric experience, then you’re certain to find some incredible food in this neighbourhood, as well. You may want to save some of your appetite for our next stop, however.

Grand Central Market

No time spent in Downtown Los Angeles is complete without visiting the Grand Central Market. First opened in 1917, this market hall is a foodie’s paradise.

Home to both fresh produce vendors and a range of different food stalls, you can get everything here from ramen to Berlin-style currywurst to barbecue to tostadas to wood-fired pizza and so much more.

Though this entire day really celebrates just how vibrant and multicultural LA is, you can really see it very tangibly for yourself just by browsing all of the stalls in the market.

End your day at the other side of Downtown LA in the Koreatown neighbourhood. Known locally as simply “K-Town,” this is the heart of the Korean-American population in the city and is actually one of the most densely populated neighbourhoods in the entirety of the USA.

K-Town has it all and if you’re a fan of Korean cuisine, you’re sure to find something great to eat here. It can also be a great idea to learn a little bit about the history of this ethnically diverse neighbourhood, especially considering it was the epicentre of the 1992 Los Angeles Riots and it very much shaped the neighbourhood today.

There is a lot to offer in this neighbourhood and it is the perfect place to end your third day in LA.

Day 4 – Beverly Hills, Westwood & the Getty Center

If your visions of Los Angeles have to do with high-end homes and designer shopping, then you’re sure to love day four of this itinerary. And, if you’re looking to learn a bit, this day also includes a visit at one of the area’s top museums.

Rodeo Drive

Begin your day at Beverly Hills’ most iconic shopping street – Rodeo Drive. Whether you’re simply looking at doing some window shopping or are keen to splash the cash at the area’s countless designer shops, there is no doubt that this is a perfect place for an opulent LA experience.

You’ll notice a distinct change in atmosphere here compared to the other neighbourhoods you’ve explored and even if you’re not interested in the lives of the rich and famous of Beverly Hills, it can be worth having a stroll down Rodeo Drive just to experience the sheer diversity of LA neighbourhoods.

Explore Westwood

Not far from Beverly Hills and Bel Air lies the hip and cool Westwood neighbourhood. This is a young and vibrant area that is a fun place to explore. It has an especially youthful vibe as it is home to the UCLA campus.

There are lots of great cafes, restaurants, bars and shops to explore in this neighbourhood and, again, it can give you a bit of a different perspective on the city. And if you want to really see what this area is like, consider hopping in the car and driving through the winding streets of nearby Bel Air, where you can see some of the most opulent, giant houses in the city.

After spending the morning around Beverly Hills, it’s only a short hop over to the Getty — one of the top museums in Los Angeles. If you’re a fine arts fan, you will delight in visiting the countless exhibits in this beautiful museum.

The museum itself is worth visiting just for the incredible architecture and the great views you can get from there. The Getty is quite sizeable, so plan to spend a fair amount of time here really taking in all of the different exhibits of American and European art.

Day 5 – Day Trip or Universal Studios

If you’re spending 5 days in LA, then you can spend your final day on a day trip or, if you’re interested, enjoying all of the highlights at Universal Studios. There are countless options open for you depending on what exactly you’re after.

Universal Studios

If you want to head to a theme park but don’t want to leave LA proper, then make sure to head to Universal Studios. Here, you not only can go on a classic studio tour but you can also enjoy the sprawling theme park and have a blast on all of the rides and areas based on your favourite movies!

You need a whole day (at least) to devote to Universal Studios, so this is an excellent way to spend your final day exploring LA.

Santa Barbara

If you’re up for a bit of a drive, then consider heading to Santa Barbara , which is located about 2 hours from the centre of Los Angeles.

This lovely town is a perfect day trip destination an it has a lot to offer visitors. You can wander along the beach, explore the Funk Zone (the cool, downtown area) or enjoy the Urban Wine Trails.

Santa Barbara is the limit of where Southern California can merge into the Central Coast and it has a much more laid-back and relaxed culture when compared to Los Angeles. It is an excellent day trip option for LA.

If you want to head out to the beach once more, then you really cannot go wrong with driving out to Malibu. Located just north of Los Angeles proper, Malibu is home to several incredible beaches that are not quite as built up and a bit wilder than the beaches you will find within LA itself.

Malibu is also home to the Getty Villa, an offshoot of the Getty Museum in Beverly Hills. Here, you can view a wonderful collection of antiquities that were in the possession of oil tycoon J Paul Getty.

Orange County

If you’re keen to head south, then consider visiting Orange County. Now famous for the popular 2000s-era TV show The OC , Orange County is home to countless lovely beach towns and interesting places to visit. Huntington Beach is the closest to Los Angeles and is a perfect place to observe surfers catching the waves (or to try your hand at it yourself).

Other options in Orange County include swish Newport Beach – which is a great option for kids as you could also visit the classic theme park on Balboa Island.

And just a bit further south and about 1.5 hours from LA itself is Laguna Beach. This is a relaxed beach town with a ton of beautiful beaches to explore and wonderful shops and restaurants.

Catalina Island

Finally, if you’re looking for a unique day trip from LA, then consider heading to Catalina Island . Located off the coast of Southern California, Catalina is a lovely destination and it’s accessible via high-speed ferry from Long Beach or San Pedro, just south of the LA city centre.

Once in Catalina, you can spend your day wandering around the charming city of Avalon, touring the iconic Casino, hiking in the hills or, if you’d like simply lounging on the beach. Catalina is also a haven for those who like snorkelling, SCUBA diving or other watersports.

The historic Avalon Casino on Santa Catalina Island

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Hollywood Inn Suites Hotel – If you’re wondering where to stay in LA and are travelling on a mid-range budget then this modern hotel is a great choice. They have a number of rooms to choose from that are suitable for couples or families and there is a swimming pool for guests to enjoy.

Hotel Per La – This cool hotel located in downtown LA is the perfect place to stay if you’re after a bit of luxury when visiting the City of Angels. They have a central location and guests can enjoy a rooftop swimming pool with fantastic views of the surrounding area.

Freehand Los Angeles – If you’re travelling solo or prefer to save some money, then this hostel is a fantastic option Located in downtown Los Angeles, they have a range of both private rooms and dorms with facilities that you would typically only find in hotels such as a rooftop pool and fitness centre.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Los Angeles hotels!

Planning the perfect trip to Los Angeles is no easy task as this large and spread-out city has a lot to offer. Whether you’re looking to spot Hollywood stars, lounge on the beach or experience incredible world cuisine, you’re sure to find something to love about California’s largest city!

Are you planning to visit Los Angeles? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hey Maggie I appreciate all the information you shared on here! My husband and I are headed to California from Canada here on Saturday and had no plans other then a rental car, hope to do some hiking, trying all the food and taking in all that California has to offer. We are starting in Los Angeles and were thinking of making our way up to Yosemite and Maybe San Francisco. We have 10 days so we will definitely be spending a good portion in Los Angeles because of the information you’ve given us here. If you have any other suggestions for our adventure around the state we are all ears!

I’m so happy you found this helpful! We have a lot of other great articles on California that should hopefully help you plan out your trip: https://www.theworldwasherefirst.com/california-travel-guide/

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Top 10 Reasons to Visit Los Angeles in the Summer

What Makes Summer the Perfect Time to Visit LA?

The biggest reason NOT to visit LA in the summer is the crowds. But of course, the reason there are crowds is that summer is a great time to visit LA. Here are some of the best reasons to visit Los Angeles during the summer months.

Summer is really the best time of the year to go to the beach in LA. It may still be cool, but you have a better chance of hot days and the water is a little warmer than the rest of the year. Lifeguard towers are only staffed during the summer, and most beach vendors only operate in summer. Check out my guide to LA Beaches and the Top Things to Do at the Beach .

Oceans of Fun

Kayte Deioma

From kayaking to kite boarding, surfing to water-skiing, sailing to sport fishing, summer is the best time to be out on the Pacific Ocean. Although there may be better surf waves in the winter, the warmer 70 degree water is less chilling while still keeping you plenty cool in the summer heat.

Long Hours at Theme Parks

Peter Brandt/Getty Images

The lines are longer during the peak summer theme park season, but the hours are also longer, giving you more hours to get your money's worth out of your park visit.

Water Parks Are Open

LA area water parks tend to stay open from Memorial Day though September or October weekends. So this is the only time of year you can enjoy this wet and slippery fun.

Summer Outdoor Music

Nearly every community in Greater Los Angeles offers some kind of outdoor music series in the summer, from the Santa Monica Pier to Downtown Los Angeles . Some are ticketed events, but many are free. Check out more free things to do in LA .

Summer Theatre Festivals

With the plethora of talented actors in town, there is great theatre all year long, but during the summer, Shakespeare and other classics take over LA's outdoor stages with LA Summer Theatre Festivals from the Valley to Orange County.

Summer Family Festivals

Summer is a great time to visit with kids, since there is some kind of Summer Family Festival going on almost every weekend, from neighborhood carnivals and international street fairs to special events at museums and the Hollywood Bowl .

July 4th in Los Angeles

Los Angeles area communities go all out to celebrate Independence Day from fireworks at the Rose Bowl to the biggest 4th of July Parade in the west in Huntington Beach. See the Full list of 4th of July Events in LA and Orange County .

Orange County Fair

The Orange County Fair provides four weeks of typical county fair fun mid-July through mid-August including rides, games, art, livestock, harvest and cooking competitions, technology exhibits and gadgets galore.

Laguna Arts Festivals

Just 40 minutes south of Los Angeles, Laguna Beach stages three summer-long arts festivals including the Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters , the Sawdust Art & Craft Festival, and Art-A-Fair .

Read more about all the Laguna Beach Art Festivals .

The Ultimate Los Angeles Packing List

Los Angeles's picture-perfect weather is no lie. L.A. is among the top 20 sunniest cities in the U.S., so if you want an urban escape with a vitamin-D fix, this is your town. But there's a second act in Hollywood’s sunny story that has nothing to do with the beach. Los Angeles style is heavily influenced by the latest streetwear. Trends come and go as fast as the paparazzi snap celebrity photos. In other words, there's way more to packing well for Los Angeles than throwing a couple of bathing suits and flip-flops in a designer handbag. Here's our best advice for help packing in L.A., including a shortlist of essentials, the best luggage, and answers to frequently asked packing questions. And don't forget your statement sunglasses!

See recent posts by Rachel Klein

THE LUGGAGE

When it comes to packing, it’s all about the right bag for the right job. If you’ve been making do with a beat up old duffle or an ancient carry-on with a sticky wheel, you’ll be amazed at how a new bag makes travel so effortless. Every smart traveler should have three key pieces of luggage: a weekender bag for quickie getaways, a carry-on suitcase for week-long trips, and a larger suitcase for longer stays or travelers that overdo it on souvenirs. (Guilty!) For a weekender, we’re fans of the Away Everywhere bag. This little dynamo has separate pockets for your laptop, pens, reading materials, and phone, plus a waterproof umbrella compartment—genius when you visit a rainy destination. For a one-week trip, it’s hard to beat Away’s Carry-On —it changed the suitcase game with an ejectable battery for phone charging, smooth spinner wheels, and a lifetime warranty. And for any trips lasting two weeks or longer, go for the Travelpro Platinum Elite . There’s a reason flight crews swear by this luggage brand. This checked bag has gliding spinner wheels, a telescoped handle, and two-inches of zippered expansion. Consider yourself packed.

THE PACKING GEAR

Every packing hurdle is made easier with this trio of travel gear. Got a hotel room with little counter space? This hanging toiletry bag will give you elbow room at the sink plus provide dedicated pockets for all your creams, gels, and sprays. Hang it on the bathroom door or over the towel rack to keep everything upright, protected, and in place. If you have an issue with overpacking—who doesn’t?—then packing cubes are a game-changer. This four-piece set will keep all your things, from underpants to electronics, organized and condensed, saving you precious suitcase space. And rather than depend on the freebie toiletries at the hotel (that harsh hotel soap will zap all the moisture from your skin), bring your own tried-and-true toiletries in these TSA-approved squeeze bottles.

THE IN-FLIGHT ESSENTIALS

Only travel amateurs get on a flight without bringing the essentials. A sleep mask not only blocks out cabin lights—it provides the privacy you need to get some Zs. The Trtl travel pillow is a travel editors’ favorite for keeping your neck and head comfortable as you nod off. And Comrad compression socks’ moisture-wicking technology keeps feet comfy and protects you from deep vein thrombosis. (Yikes!) Fly like a pro with these packing essentials.

LOS ANGELES OUTFIT INSPIRATION

Angelenos have perfected the art of being ultra-casual yet always photo-ready. Celebs and influencers set the tone, dressed like they rolled out of bed, but looking perfect. But keep in mind that sporting laid-back clothes and still looking pulled together takes effort. You can never go wrong with athleisure wear to take you from a morning run to the Hollywood farmer’s market to an afternoon of shopping at the Grove. Denim is definitely king in L.A.—ripped jeans, fitted skirts, and oversized jackets are everywhere. But otherwise, style can vary depending on where you are in the city. Walking down Abbott Kinney in Venice Beach or along the Third Street Promenade in Santa Monica , it’s perfectly acceptable to wear a caftan and flip-flops. Echo Park and Silver Lake lean more towards hipster vibes (think upscale vintage), whereas the Westside—which encompasses Beverly Hills —is all glitz and glamour, with luxury brands on Rodeo Drive and trendy, up-and-coming designer boutiques on Robertson Boulevard.

Women’s Outfits

Women’s historic sights of old san juan outfit, shop the look.

Red Carter Allison Jumpsuit

Chimi 005 Sunglasses

Pamina Hoop Earrings

Clare V. Woven Petite Alice Bag

Torrence Ankle Wrap Sandal (oxford)

La younger women’s day outfit.

Dry Fit Tank

Silver Necklace

Slip On Sneakers

La older women’s night look.

Aubrey Sunglasses

Cashmere Shawl

Slingback Flats

La older women’s day look.

Travel Pants

Summer Scarf

Collapsible Water Bottle

La women’s beach outfit.

Chambray Button Up

Beach Sandals

Mineral Sunscreen Powder

Portable Pop Up Beach Tent

Men’s outfits, la older men’s night look.

Gingham Shirt

Dress Pants

Leather Belt

LA Younger Mens Night Outfit

LA Younger Men’s Day Outfit

Chino Shorts

Slip-On Sneakers

La older men’s day outfit.

Convertible Travel Pants

Travel Pack

LA Men’s Beach Look

Swim Trunks

Sun Glasses

THE 3 PAIRS OF SHOES YOU’LL NEED FOR EXPLORING LOS ANGELES

A pair of versatile flats is a vacation wardrobe staple. Go for a neutral color and choose a fabric that gives, such as leather or canvas. Another smart bet for L.A. is sneakers—a pair that puts cool first and comfy second. Sandals that are attractive enough to wear off the beach and out to dinner do double duty, and you’ll get more mileage out of pairs with a hint of sparkle or shine. Guys can get away with stylish sneakers for active pursuits and a versatile pair of desert boots for dinner or hitting a club. Don’t leave home without a decent pair of flip-flops for the beach or pool.

Women’s Shoes

Men’s Shoes

Your suitcase packing checklist

Click items to view travel editor-approved options

Clothing cont'd

Lightweight Raincoat

Shoes & Accessories

Walking shoes
Hair accessories

Accessories cont'd

Fold-down tote
Dental floss
Conditioner

Toiletries cont.

Moisturizer
Contact lenses
Contact lens solution
Shaving cream
Brush and comb
Hair styling tools
Tampons and pads
Hand sanitizer
Pain relievers
Stain remover
Portable charger
Tablet or E-reader
Device chargers
Power adaptors
Memory card
Selfie stick

Other Essentials

Medical insurance card
Water bottle (empty)
Travel blanket or wrap
Travel pillow
Laundry bag

Helpful Printouts

Emergency contacts
Boarding pass
Hotel and car rental reservations
Maps and directions
Bank and credit card contact info
Copies of passport and ID

WHAT NOT TO PACK FOR LOS ANGELES

It’s a bit of a myth that no one walks in L.A. People drive, then walk—and there are plenty of lovely spots for strolling, whether at the Art District downtown or at Venice Beach . It’s always a good idea to bring comfortable shoes on vacation—ones that get a test-run before you take off. But you won’t pound the pavement like you might in New York or Chicago, so feel free to skip the comfortable-but-not-cute flats. Sky-high heels aren’t a must-have, although if your evening outfit requires extra glamour, it’s also fine to bring them. There’s no need to schlep a heavy coat and with very little precipitation, you can leave behind the umbrella and rubber boots.

THE ONE THING WTP EDITORS ALWAYS BRING TO LOS ANGELES

Karen Walker Super Duper Strength Sunglasses

Sunglasses are a must have in sunny Los Angeles. Not only do they protect your peepers from the blindingly bright sun, they also look extremely cool in all sorts of situations: strolling down the Santa Monica pier, sipping green juice in Silver Lake, or hanging pool side at the Freehand Los Angeles hotel. Another plus? Sunglasses let you privately scan Hollywood Boulevard for celebrities. Choose a bold pair of statement sunnies that are neutral enough to coordinate with everything you own and stylish enough to add bold interest to all your outfits. Karen Walker Super Duper Strength Sunglasses fit the bill thanks to the tortoiseshell frames and oversized circular lenses. You may even be mistaken for a celebrity yourself. — WTP Editors

$250 at Shopbop

LOS ANGELES’ WEATHER AND SEASONS

Notorious June gloom fog aside, L.A.’s weather is fab. Year-round sun is the norm, so you can pretty much bet on catching rays poolside or at the beach. While there is a rainy season January through March, we aren’t talking monsoons by any means, and precipitation drops off significantly in April. What’s trickier to manage are widely swinging temperatures, thanks to microclimates across the region. Drive 10 minutes from Venice Beach to Santa Monica and watch moody, overcast skies give way to brilliant sunshine. The tank top you’re wearing for lunch at an outdoor cafe on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills won’t be warm enough if your next stop is hiking in Griffith Park . Set out for the day in layers and keep an extra jacket in the car. Another major weather factor to consider is wind. Strong gusts from the Santa Anas typically come in autumn, bringing hot, dry conditions that fan wildfires north of Los Angeles.

Note: Below is a packing forecast, not a traditional forecast. A packing forecast focuses on how cold it’s likely to be in the early mornings and evenings based on historical data. We recommend using this together with a traditional forecast as you get closer to your departure date. This data comes from our friends at Weather Underground .

Plan for day temps between 50° F and 59° F
Temps will drop near 38° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 0.2 inches of precipitation in January

What to Wear in Los Angeles in January: You may be escaping from someplace colder, but don’t expect to sunbathe in a bikini. Make sure to pack warm clothes, including sweaters and a jacket.

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Plan for day temps between 50°F and 60° F
Temps will drop near 40° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 0.00 inches of precipitation in February

What to Wear in Los Angeles in February: It’s still cold in February, so like in January a warm jacket is a must. Ditto for longer dresses and men’s jeans.

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Plan for day temps between 53° F and 60° F
Temps will drop near 43° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 0.10 inches of precipitation in March

What to Wear in Los Angeles in March: L.A.’s version of winter sticks around through the end of March, and like the first two months of the year, cold-weather clothing is required. Pack items like a chunky sweater, jeans, and boots, or a long skirt to wear with tights.

What to Wear in Los Angeles in April: Temps typically turn warm-ish in April, though you’ll want to bring along a coat for evening dips. Unless you’re wearing a heavy sweater underneath, a denim jacket might not be warm enough, so go something quilted or fleecey.

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Plan for day temps between 58° F and 65° F
Temps will drop near 52° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 0.00 inches of precipitation in May

What to Wear in Los Angeles in May: May is much like April, so think long sleeves and a lined jacket. You’ll want to pack good walking shoes to make the most of the spring weather and stroll the Santa Monica pier. Sidewalk tables start to come out this month, but eating outside during the day isn’t a sure thing.

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Plan for day temps between 66° F and 70° F
Temps will drop near 58° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 0.00 inches of precipitation in June

What to Wear in Los Angeles in June: June is reliably warm during the day, and it’s when you’ll start to see a hint of summer in outfit choices, like open-back shoes and flirty lightweight dresses.

Plan for day temps between 71° F and 79° F
Temps will drop near 63° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 0.00 inches of precipitation in July

What to Wear in Los Angeles in July: Summer is in full swing in July. A wrap or light sweater for restaurants or theaters with blasting AC is a good idea, but otherwise get out there and bare some skin.

Plan for day temps between 73° F and 78° F
Temps will drop near 65° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 0.00 inches of precipitation in August

What to Wear in Los Angeles in August: It can get pretty hot in August, but there’s usually a cool breeze to balance it out (especially at the beach). Just like in July, it’s feasible to spend the entire day outside in a bathing suit and cover-up.

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What to Wear in Los Angeles in September: It’s still warm in September, but it might not feel that way because of the gusty Santa Ana wind blowing. Keep a cotton cardigan handy to throw over your shoulders or tie around your waist.

Plan for day temps between 66° F and 71° F
Temps will drop near 54° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 0.02 inches of precipitation in October

What to Wear in Los Angeles in October: October is a tricky month, since you’ll want something for warm days and slightly chilly nights. Long-sleeved tees and white jeans are a good combo.

Plan for day temps between 60° F and 65° F
Temps will drop near 47° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 0.05 inches of precipitation in November

What to Wear in Los Angeles in November: L.A.’s 70-degree weather usually disappears by November. You might be warm sitting at an outdoor restaurant for lunch with a spot in the sun, but you’ll want a jacket with you at all times. And sweaters are a good bet.

Plan for day temps between 51° F and 59° F
Temps will drop near 39° F at night and into the early mornings
Expect 0.07 inches of precipitation in December

What to Wear in Los Angeles in December: You won’t have a white Christmas in L.A., but it gets pretty chilly during the holidays. Time to break out the thick wool knits, plus a warm coat and boots (go for white). And nothing is more Los Angeles than a beanie, trust us.

Buy on North Face

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT PACKING FOR LOS ANGELES

Frequently Asked Questions Los Angeles, Sunset City View

I’m planning to take a hike through Lake Hollywood Park to see the Hollywood Sign. Do I need to wear something comfortable?

Be aware: You won’t be doing any hiking if you’re viewing the Hollywood sign from Lake Hollywood Park. The park is a public space with well-maintained lawns and paths, and it’s relatively flat with some rolling hills. (It’s a great place to picnic, we might add.) Note that you can’t hike close enough to the Hollywood sign to touch it—the only vantage points are on trails and off roads.

Whether you’re going through the park or zigzagging on trails, by all means, wear something comfortable. This isn’t serious hiking, but you’ll be most comfortable in sneakers and athletic pants—sporty clothes are best. Think layers, because it can be chilly in the morning and evening but you’ll want to peel down to a T-shirt or tank midday.

My family and I are going to La Brea Tar Pits Museum to see the Ice Age Excavation Site. Are we going to get dirty?

No. You won’t get dirty because you can’t get that close. A raised platform with safety railing is what you can expect on the tour. The tar pits bubble, but not high enough to splash onlookers.

I’m going to Universal Studios Hollywood in January. Do I need to bring warm clothes?

Yes. You won’t need a heavy coat or a warm hat and gloves, but definitely a jacket with a light wool or cashmere sweater and a cami or tank underneath. Pair it with jeans or skirt and tights along with closed-toe shoes.

I’m attending a Lakers game while in LA. What colors should I rock?

The Lakers have donned purple and gold since 1967, when Jack Kent Cooke purchased the franchise. Fun fact: he also owned the Rams. Granted, it isn’t the easiest combination to pull off style-wise, but if you’re gung-ho on showing team spirit, colorful accessories might be the way to go—like a gold handbag and a purple neck scarf—rather than a full-on, head-to-toe outfit. If you don’t have Lakers gear, you’ll also be totally comfortable in casual sporty clothing.

Going to the Staples Center is a classic night out in downtown Los Angeles, and courtside seats are often packed with every celebrity from Kendall Jenner to Leonardo DiCaprio.

Any special considerations visiting the Griffith Observatory?

This romantic spot with a breathtaking skyline view can get windy, and it may be chilly inside the observatory. If it isn’t the height of summer, bring along something warm to throw over your shoulders, especially if you visit at night.

How should I dress for a day at the museum (the Los Angeles County Museum or Art of the Getty)?

People dress sharp for a visit LACMA and the Getty. Opt for smart-casual clothing, like a fun skirt and cropped sweater. Guys should plan an outfit that’s slicker than plain shorts and flip-flips, like a short-sleeved button-down worn underneath an open cardigan sweater, and neat (read: no rips) jeans.

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Vacations in Los Angeles

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Most popular los angeles flight and hotel deals, last minute vacation packages to los angeles, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a vacation in los angeles, tips for finding los angeles package deals.

There are loads of types of vacations in Los Angeles and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $501; Family vacation $469; Romantic vacation $706; Luxury vacation $742; Budget vacation $326.

Why should you book a vacation package to Los Angeles?

People often underestimate LA's vast city sprawl. Some of the popular locations include Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Anaheim, with locals flocking to coastal haunts like Long Beach and Huntington Beach. As a rule of thumb, the closer you are to the ocean, the higher the cost and quality of your Los Angeles hotel.

When should you book a vacation package to Los Angeles?

Due to the year-round temperate weather, the best time to visit Los Angeles is generally in the spring and summer when cultural activities start picking up, including Pasadena's "Rose Festival Parade" and the popular "Coachella" music festival just outside of the city.

Where should you stay in Los Angeles during your vacation?

For any vacation type in los angeles:.

The Millenium Biltmore in east Los Angeles offers timeless décor with easy access to downtown public transportation. Upon your arrival, you'll find a transfer via airport shuttle from Los Angeles International Airport.

The Georgian Hotel in Santa Monica will have you feeling like you've stepped into a Wes Anderson kaleidoscope just steps from the popular downtown pier. Consider taking a taxi, uber, or lyft from the nearby LAX airport to avoid having the stress of dealing with the notorious Los Angeles traffic.

For family vacations in Los Angeles:

The Sheraton Getaway Hotel seamlessly blends convenience and comfort with an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and conference rooms. Its convenient location on the grounds of LAX Airport makes it easy to take a complimentary shuttle to the terminal.

The Hilton Los Angeles in Universal City puts you right at the Universal Studios park entrance, with all the quality customer service you would expect from an internationally recognized hotel brand. Airport shuttles are available for visiting hotel guests and may also include free transfers to the nearby park.

For romantic vacations in Los Angeles:

The Queen Mary in Long Beach is an iconic landmark that offers elegant décor, gourmet dining, and evening shows. Convenient transfers from Long Beach Airport to the hotel via pre-arranged shuttle bus are available when you book your Los Angeles getaway online.

The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows is perfectly situated next to the Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach. Consider taking a taxi, uber, or lyft for the fastest travel times between this beachside hotel and Los Angeles International Airport just a few miles to the south.

For luxury vacations in Los Angeles:

The Langham Huntington in Pasadena provides a stately grandeur with sweeping grounds, luxury spa services, and the perfect backdrop of the San Gabriel mountains. Pasadena's upscale city planning makes renting a car the best choice for transferring between Langham Huntington and Los Angeles International Airport.

The Ritz Carlton in downtown Los Angeles puts you in the center of the action while also providing a great vantage point of the city from the rooftop pool. Easily transfer from LAX Airport to downtown via taxi or airport shuttle service.

For budget vacations in Los Angeles:

The Ayres Hotel Manhattan Beach offers European-style boutique accommodation conveniently located next to LAX International Airport. This convenient location makes it easy to grab a taxi, uber, or lyft for a quick transition to the Ayres Hotel in Hawthorne.

Hyatt House Cyprus Anaheim is perfectly situated near to several Los Angeles theme parks including Disneyland, California Adventure, and Knotts Berry Farm. A rental car is the easiest way to transfer between LAX Airport and other Southern California attractions.

Where to stay in Los Angeles

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The best times to visit Los Angeles

Feb 21, 2024 • 5 min read

Choose the best time for your visit to LA with this guide to what's happening through the year © lechatnoir / Getty Images

Home to sun-drenched beaches , iconic boulevards and endless experiences , visitors flock to Los Angeles throughout the year.

While the city may not be too distinctive seasonally, each period brings its own magic. From the vibrant springtime blooms, contagious energy of summer, spooky delights of fall, and enchanting holiday magic of winter, there is always something happening.

So when is the best time to visit this urban paradise? The good news is, there's no such thing as a bad time. Whether you're looking to soak in the sunshine, skip the crowds, or stick to a tighter budget , we can help you choose the right time for yo

Tulips in bloom in a flower bed bordering a path through a garden

March to May is the best time for perfect weather and fewer crowds

Spring in Los Angeles brings comfortable temperatures, blooming landscapes and longer days. Daily highs hover around 75°F, lows rarely fall below 45°F, and the chance of the occasional rainshower is typically nonexistent.

March to May draws fewer crowds to the city, making it a popular and more convenient time to soak in the many attractions. Whale watching is a favored choice for sealife enthusiasts as it's migration season. Spring sees 20,000 gray whales travel via Los Angeles from the Arctic to their breeding and calving grounds in Baja California, Mexico. There are many tours to witness this firsthand, particularly in Long Beach and Orange County.

Those who love the sights of fresh blooms should visit Descanso Gardens . While open year-round, the 150-acre botanical playground is a great way to soak in the sunshine and admire seasonal flowers like tulips, camellias, lilacs, roses and azaleas.

Springtime also welcomes festival season, with many LA locals and visitors in town ahead of music festivals Coachella and Stage Coach . While the extravaganzas take place in the Californian desert near Palm Springs, LA acts as a home base for out-of-towners.

But it's not all sunshine, with May Gray and June Gloom something to be aware of. The phenomena refer to the overcast and sometimes gray foggy conditions seen some mornings. These conditions shouldn't deter visitors, though because they make outdoor activities like hiking more comfortable (just be sure to wear layers). The good news is, the sky typically clears throughout the day, and the sun breaks through by afternoon.

Skateboarders ride down ramps at a skatepark on the edge of a palm-lined beach

September to November is the best time for budget travelers

If you're on a budget , September to November is an off-peak season, making it a great time to visit LA. Most kids are back at school, the summer rush has subsided, and the weather continues to radiate heat – in a more comfortable manner.

Fall comes complete with packed event schedules like the Emmy Awards, DTLA Film Festival, and for car lovers, the LA Auto Show. Amid all the offerings is Scary Season, with Universal Studios putting on its annual must-visit Halloween Horror Nights.

But if you're hoping to witness autumn foliage and trees changing colors, like in the movies, be warned LA is not the place. Unlike other big cities such as New York and Chicago , Southern California lacks significant seasonal changes.

It's also important that budget vacationers choose their travel dates wisely. While fall prices are generally ideal, booking too early may still see you faced with summer peak-season prices. Booking belatedly, eg late November, may have you slapped with even higher prices ahead of the holiday season. Thanksgiving (the last Thursday of November) is known for being one of the most expensive times to travel.

Two people dressed in rainbow colors pause as they walk in a parade to smile and blow a kiss at the camera

June to August is the high season and the best time for beach lovers

The sun is shining, and the waves are calling. For travelers looking to experience that SoCal beach life, summer is the best time to visit. Iconic beach towns like Santa Monica, Venice , Malibu and Manhattan Beach house over 100 beaches and host over 50 million visitors annually. If you are headed to one of the many gorgeous seasides, bring plenty of sunscreen, water and a beach umbrella, as temperatures average around 85°F and UV index ratings frequently rank extreme.

From the ever-colorful and glorious LA Pride in June to Independence Day on July 4, summer in LA is when the city comes alive. Outdoor cinemas and summer concerts are also in full swing as locals and tourists soak in the longer days and warmer nights. The Hollywood Bowl is a great place to experience an LA summer night, with shows most evenings. The historic amphitheater in the heart of the Hollywood Hills was named one of the 10 best live music venues in America by Rolling Stone magazine and has hosted big names, including Judy Garland, Elton John, The Beatles, Adele and Lana Del Rey.

Bear in mind, though, that with endless events and activities, school holidays and warm weather in full force, LA crowds, longer lines and high prices peak in summer.

December to February are the best times for culture enthusiasts

The months of December to February are ideal for indoor attractions like museums , galleries and theaters sans crowds. With the holiday season also in tow, light displays in neighborhoods and streets like Candy Cane Lane in Woodland Hills and The Grove are attractions in themselves. Come New Year's Day, Pasadena puts on its annual Rose Parade, which features approximately 45 incredible rose-covered floats.

For those looking for a snow-filled winter wonderland, LA is not the place. Temperatures stay pretty consistent, with some days still reaching above 72°F. And while it's not common to see much rainfall in LA, it does happen, and when it does, it's typically during January and February. Being a rare occurrence, some restaurants, bars and attractions do close until the sun returns. Prices also rise from mid-December to early January for the holiday season.

Take the next step in planning your trip to Los Angeles:

Know these 10 things before you visit These tips will help you plan your budget Traffic is tricky. Plan how to get around Discover the best neighborhood to fit your vibe

This article was first published Feb 18, 2021 and updated Feb 21, 2024.

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Travel Destinations A-Z

The Ultimate Los Angeles Itinerary, Mountain Hikes, Seaside Bike Rides, and Fresh Seafood Included

Discover the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do in Los Angeles with this highly curated guide to the city.

Best Time to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

stellalevi/Getty Images

Los Angeles, at around 500 square miles, is the largest city within Los Angeles County which includes more than 100 cities and communities. Known for its entertainment industry, miles of coastline, mountains, shopping, sports, ethnic diversity, and culture of creativity, L.A.'s vibe ranges from upscale to hip to surf-casual and everything between, defying a label for the city as a whole. Several areas comprise Los Angeles, mainly Downtown (DTLA), the Westside, West Hollywood, Hollywood, the Beach Cities, and the Valley, with other communities within those districts.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), served by all major airlines, is about 16 miles from Downtown. Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), also known as Bob Hope Airport, is located about 20 minutes north of downtown. Union Station is the main railway station in Los Angeles, and it's the largest railroad passenger terminal in the western United States.

Visitors seeking outdoor activities can choose mountain hikes, seaside bike rides, golf, boating, surfing, or just enjoying the sunshine. Spectator sports abound, and depending on the season, there's basketball, football, baseball, and soccer. Live theater, film complexes, museums, and art galleries provide opportunities for cultural activities.

The Los Angeles dining scene boasts elegant restaurants, casual outdoor cafes, and ethnic foods that include Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, Ethiopian, Korean, Italian, Israeli, and many more. Fresh seafood from local waters and produce from California's farms are always available.

Pacific Standard Time. (Daylight Savings Time is observed seasonally)

Year-round moderate temperatures, low humidity, and cool evenings make any month a good time to visit Los Angeles. Summers are warmer, especially in the Valley, while coastal areas see cooler temperatures and often begin with morning clouds that burn off to sunny afternoons. Rainfall is generally less than 20 inches annually, with December through March considered the wetter months.

Summer is popular with vacationers, and with miles of beaches, there's always room for your blanket and umbrella. The 26-mile bike path along the coast from Torrance Beach to Pacific Palisades gets a bit more traffic in summer, but bikers, joggers, walkers, and skateboarders happily share the scenery and ocean breezes year round. In winter, Los Angeles is the perfect escape from colder climates when visitors can trade their down jacks for sweaters or windbreakers.

Los Angeles is known for its car culture, although public transportation is available in most areas. The city is infamous for its freeway traffic, and visitors are advised to keep this in mind when planning outings around the city.

There's a lot of ground to cover and so much to see. If time allows, book a hotel in the area you want to explore. You'll get to experience different neighborhoods, and you'll save time getting around. Get familiar with the "big picture" of Los Angeles while you make plans to get a better idea of where your destinations are located.

The weather varies from the coastal towns to the inland valley, and the temperature difference can be 20 degrees or more. Check the weather and keep a light jacket handy.

Metro Rail Lines: Six light rail and subway lines connect various locations within Los Angeles. Check the online map , website , or use the GoMetro mobile app for planning.

Metro Bus System: Local, Rapid, Express services are available throughout the Los Angeles area, with nearly 200 different lines. Many connect to Metro Rail stations. Visit the Metro website for details .

DASH Bus Service: Los Angeles Department of Transportation operates frequent bus service in DTLA and in 27 neighborhoods. Visit the DASH website for details.

Driving: Hundreds of miles of freeways connect various sections of Los Angeles and can be efficient for traveling. Plan your route, avoid commuter rush hours, and expect some traffic to get the most out of driving in Los Angeles. GPS apps will be helpful.

Uber, Lyft, taxis: You can let someone else worry about directions, parking, and traffic by using your preferred app.

Union Station: (800 North Alameda Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012) is a major transportation hub for Amtrak, Greyhound Bus, auto rentals, taxis, Metro bus, light rail and subway, Metrolink heavy rail service, Megabus, and Zipcar.

Transportation from Los Angeles International Airport

LAX FlyAway Bus Service provides regularly scheduled non-stop service to several locations. Check the website for current schedules.

Taxi Service : Taxis may drop passengers off at their terminals on the Upper/Departures level. Arriving passengers may get taxis at three locations: next to Terminal 1 (either by walking or taking the free shuttle to LAX-it. ), inside Parking Structure 3 (between Terminals B and 3), or at the far end of Terminal 7, outside of baggage claim.

Ride-sharing Apps : Lyft, Opoli, and Uber are the authorized providers for LAX. They can drop off passengers at terminals on the Upper/Departures level. Arriving passengers may be picked up at the LAX-it lot next to terminal 1. Walk or take the free LAX-it shuttle.

Rental Cars : Offices are located off airport. Shuttles meet arriving passengers under the purple "Rental Car shuttles" sign on the Lower/Arrivals level islands.

Public Transportation: Several public transit providers serve LAX, including L.A. Metro , Santa Monica Big Blue Bus , Torrance Transit , and Beach Cities Transit .

Hotel Shuttles : Many major airport area hotels provide courtesy transportation from LAX terminals. Shuttle stops are located on the Upper/Departures level by Red curbside pylons.

Metro C Line at Aviation Station: Wait at the Pink Shuttle sign on the Lower/Arrivals level and board "Metro C Line (formerly Green Line) Shuttle."

Downtown DTLA

Intercontinental los angeles downtown.

Address: 900 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90017 Phone: (800) 424-6835 Book Now

In the center of downtown, this 73-story hotel boasts spectacular views and a convenient location. Its Spire 73 rooftop lounge is the tallest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere, and a sushi bar, steakhouse, and buffet restaurant offer quality dining and service.

Hotel Figueroa

Address: 939 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90015 Phone: (213) 627-8971 Book Now

This historic hotel opened in 1926 as lodging for professional women and has since seen major renovations that maintained its original Spanish Colonial style. Comfortable rooms, art-filled lobby and corridors, a coffin-shaped outdoor pool, restaurants, and cocktail lounges welcome visitors to its 268 rooms and suites.

The Wayfarer Downtown LA

Address: 813 S. Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90017 Phone: (213) 285-4400 Book Now

Convenient, comfortable, and budget-friendly, The Wayfarer features private rooms, shared rooms, a rooftop bar, cocktail lounge, and an entertainment venue. It's a new way to stay in Los Angeles, perfect for solo travelers.

Address: 819 South Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90017 Phone: (213) 623-9904 Book Now

Located in the Financial District, this hotel includes a spa, fitness center, restaurant, and bar. Complimentary breakfast, a business center, and free Wi-Fi are among the hotel's amenities. The hotel is conveniently located near the 7th Street Metro Center.

Beverly Hills/Century City

Beverly Wilshire, a Four Seasons Hotel

Address: 9500 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90212 Phone: (310) 275-5200 Book Now

Overlooking Rodeo Drive, this elegant hotel is a Los Angeles classic. Accommodations include plush guestrooms, specialty suites, and even a rooftop veranda. Guests dine at Wolfgang Puck's Cut steakhouse, the poolside cafe and bar, or The Blvd, an all-day restaurant and lounge.

Intercontinental Los Angeles Century City at Beverly Hills

Address: 2151 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA 90067 Phone: (310) 284-6500 Book Now

Views of downtown, the Pacific, and Beverly Hills from private balconies create a luxurious L.A. experience. Convenient to shopping, entertainment, and business centers, the hotel offers a spa, fitness center, pool, California cuisine at Mari, and Copper Lounge for cocktails.

Fairmont Century Plaza

Address: 2025 Avenue of the Stars, Los Angeles, CA 90067 Phone: (310) 246-4770 Book Now

This completely reimagined mid-century modern hotel is located in the heart of Century City, offering 351 guest rooms and 49 suites, all with private balconies. A guest-only private rooftop pool and bar as well as four dining options make the hotel an ideal destination just blocks from Beverly Hills and Westfield Century City shopping center.

West Hollywood WEHO

West hollywood edition.

Address: 9040 West Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Phone: (310) 953-9899 Book Now

This stunning, modern hotel by Ian Schrager features 190 guest rooms, 48 suites, two penthouses, and 20 luxury residences. Expansive outdoor terraces offer views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Hills. Amenities include a luxurious spa, fitness center, and a variety of dining spots including the popular Ardor and The Roof, for tropical-inspired cocktails and panoramic vistas.

Pendry West Hollywood

Address: 8430 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Phone: (310) 928-9000 Book Now

In the heart of the iconic Sunset Strip, the Pendry features 149 luxury guest rooms, 40 Pendry Residences, rooftop pool and bar, fitness center, and multiple food and beverage concepts helmed by famed Chef Wolfgang Puck. Spa Pendry offers signature treatments and customized services in a comfortable, healing environment.

Kimpton La Peer Hotel

Address: 627 N. La Peer Drive, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Phone: (213) 296-3038 Book Now

Set in the walkable Design District neighborhood steps from the intersection of Melrose Avenue and Santa Monica Boulevard, this hotel is stylish, comfortable, and tasteful. A secluded pool, 105 luxury guest rooms and suites, restaurants, and courtyard cocktail lounge make it a local favorite.

Hollywood Area

Dream hollywood hotel.

Address: 6417 Selma Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90028 Phone: (323) 844-6417 Book Now

The hotel's stylish mid-century modern guestrooms and suites are conveniently set near Hollywood's attractions, with panoramic views from its rooftop pool, restaurant, and cabanas. Dine at the rooftop Highlight Room, Tao Asian Bistro, or Beauty & Essex.

Kimpton Everly Hotel

Address: 1800 Argyle Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90028 Phone: (213) 279-3532 Book Now

This hip boutique hotel boasts a ground-floor coffee bar, outdoor pool, hosted evening social hour and morning coffee, yoga mats, and in-room Chromecast streaming devices. Pet-friendly accommodations, room service, and dining at Jane Q complete the picture.

Hollywood Historic Hotel

Address: 5162 Melrose Avenue, Hollywood, CA 90038 Phone: (323) 378-6312 Book Now

Dating to 1927, this newly reopened Hollywood landmark is on the National Register of Historic Places. Located near Paramount Pictures and Raleigh Studios, many of the hotel's rooms offer views of the Hollywood sign. Its walkable neighborhood boasts cafes, restaurants, and shops.

The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel

Address: 7000 Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028 Phone: (323) 856-1970 Book Now

Located on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, this hotel offers luxury and style along with a stunning David Hockney outdoor pool and cafe. Guests enjoy cocktails at the Spare Room, the hotel's prohibition era-style lounge with vintage bowling alley, and dinner at Nancy Silverton's The Barish, an Italian steakhouse.

Address: 1730 N. Western Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90027 Phone: (323) 672-8990 Book Now

A serene oasis off a busy intersection in trendy Los Feliz, Cara Hotel's local craftsmanship and food sourced from nearby farms make it a true California experience. Its 60 rooms, dressed in white with wooden accents, come with balconies overlooking the courtyard tranquility pool lined with palm trees. Under 10 minutes from iconic LA sights such as the Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and the Greek Theater, Cara is an ideal base for first-time LA visitors but will likely be a spot you'll want to return to.

Beach Cities

Shutters on the Beach

Address: 1 Pico Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90405 Phone: (310) 458-0030 Book Now

Understated luxury in New England style beachfront rooms and suites defines the hotel, just steps from the sand. Spa, pool deck with cabanas, and excellent dining options make a stay at Shutters memorable. Choose from Coast, 1 Pico, or the Living Room for food and drinks with a Pacific view.

Beach House, Hermosa Beach

Address: 1300 The Strand, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254 Phone: (310) 374-3001 Book Now

As close to the beach as a hotel can get, this oceanfront boutique offers 96 studio suites, most with views of the Pacific. Patios, balconies, fireplaces, fitness center, refrigerators, and outdoor hot tub are among the amenities. Complimentary Wi-Fi and continental breakfast are included.

Hotel Erwin

Address: 1697 Pacific Avenue, Venice, CA 90291 Phone: (310) 452-1111 Book Now

Overlooking the Pacific and the lively Venice boardwalk, the Hotel Erwin's rooms, suites, and balconies provide comfort and a front-row view of the action. The High Rooftop Lounge is the place to be for sunset, with creative cocktails and delicious menu offerings. Erwin's Kitchen + Cocktails serves breakfast and dinner.

Address: 8639 Lincoln Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90045 Phone: (888) 435-5070 Book Now

Hotel June is set in a prime location minutes from LAX, Playa Del Rey Beach, Playa Vista, Venice Beach, and Marina Del Rey as well as restaurants, shops, and parks. An expansive pool surrounded by lounges and the Caravan Swim Club offering Baja-inspired dishes and creative cocktails make Hotel June a destination as well as a convenient airport hotel.

Malibu Beach Inn

Address: 22878 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265 Phone: (310) 651-7777 Book Now

Set along Malibu's coastline with views of the Pacific, this boutique hotel offers 47 guest rooms, a restaurant, and an on-site spa suite. Hike Malibu's nearby trails, spend time at the exclusive beach, or just enjoy watching the waves and relaxing to the sounds of the surf.

Hilton Los Angeles Universal City

Address: 555 Universal Hollywood Drive, Universal City, CA 91608 Phone: (818) 506-2500 Book Now

A block from the entrance to Universal Studios, this hotel offers a complimentary shuttle to make it even more convenient. Outdoor swimming pool, whirlpool, and fitness center are among the amenities included. Poolside dining, Coffee Corner, and Cafe Sierra are dining options, and at the Atrium Lounge, beverages and snacks are served each evening along with live piano music.

The Garland

Address: 4222 Vineland Avenue, North Hollywood, CA 91602 Phone: (818) 980-8000 Book Now

This boutique hotel, created by actress Beverly Garland in 1970, is set on seven acres in the heart of Los Angeles. Now updated, its guestrooms, suites, and kids rooms boast modern decor, and its restaurants offer new menus. Free trolley rides to Universal Studios, CityWalk, and Universal City Metro Station are a favorite amenity.

Downtown L.A.

Address: 521 West Seventh Street, Los Angeles, CA Phone: (213) 225-6285 Website

Q Sushi offers traditional omakase served in a serene atmosphere by talented chef Hiroyuki Naruke. Fresh fish flown in from Japan and presented simply creates a memorable dining experience at his small downtown sushi bar.

Address: 2121 East Seventh Place, Los Angeles, CA 90021 Phone: (213) 514-5724 Website

Delicious and creative Italian dishes served in a lively warehouse-style atmosphere make Bestia a top spot. From pizza to pasta with a tasty selection of antipasti, Bestia's food is memorable and the experience is fun.

Address: 500 Mateo Street, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Phone: (213) 232-4966 Website

Fresh ingredients and a variety of cooking techniques showcase Middle Eastern foods that include flatbreads, spreads, hot and cold small plates, salads, and more. Cuisines of Israel, Morocco, Turkey, and Egypt are represented with style and attention to detail.

Howlin' Rays

Address: 727 North Broadway #128, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Phone: (213) 935-8399 Website

From a successful food truck to a Chinatown location, Howlin' Rays has been serving Nashville hot chicken to his fans in Los Angeles since 2016. Diners choose their favorite level of heat from Country (no heat) to Howlin' (HOT), and side dishes include fries, slaw, pickles, and collard greens.

Beverly Hills/Century City/West Hollywood

Jean-georges beverly hills.

Address: Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, 9850 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Phone: (310) 860-6666 Website

This elegant spot is known for exquisite service and cuisine helmed by chef Jean-Georges. His eight-course tasting menu is lovely, and with wine pairings, the experience is sublime. Reservations required.

Address: 176 North Canon Drive, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 Phone: (310) 385-0880 Website

Excellent service, inventive seasonal dishes, and sleek atmosphere define this Wolfgang Puck restaurant. The cuisine and style have consistently earned awards, including two Michelin stars.

Address: 10250 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90067l Phone: (213) 310-8000 Website

In addition to an array of wines, cheeses, meats, seafood, baked goods, and more, Eataly offers several dining spots. Il Pesce Cucina presents fresh seafood by acclaimed team from Michelin-starred Providence, chef Michael Cimarusti and Donato Poto. Terra , on the third floor rooftop, features seasonal ingredients prepared on a wood-burning Italian grill. La Pizza & La Pasta serve the best of those Italian favorites. Reservations suggested.

Address: 3850 Main Street, Suite A, Culver City, CA 90232 Phone: (424) 298-8540 Website

This ultra-creative restaurant successfully combines Cali-Asian flavors with influences of the Lowcountry of the Southeast. Delicious and artistically plated dishes, modern atmosphere, full bar, and outdoor patio make this a popular spot.

E.P. and L.P.

Address: 603 N. La Cienega Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Phone: (310) 855-9955 Website

This restaurant features an Asian-fushion menu, rooftop bar with views of the Hollywood Hills, and Las Palmas rooftop with Tulum-inspired dishes and cocktails.

Address: 9010 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Phone: (310) 307-3932 Website

This stylish restaurant on West Hollywood's restaurant row offers coastal European cuisine for fine dining and late-night cocktails. Chef Michael Fiorelli draws inspiration from the classics of Italy, Greece, France, and Spain capturing the spirit of dining on a Mediterranean vacation.

Strings of Life (S.O.L)

Address: 8535 Melrose Avenue, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Phone: (310) 734-7190

This all-day Australia-inspired casual spot serves specialty coffees, fresh baked goods, sandwiches, breakfast dishes, salads, burgers, and more under the direction of Culinary Director Monty Koludrovic with Pastry Chef Jaci Koludrovic.

Address: 9040 West Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, CA 90069 Phone: (424) 310-1572 Website

Showcasing vegetable-forward dishes in a beautiful setting, Ardor's menu includes a balance of meat and plant-based dishes. Award-winning Chef John Fraser combines fresh local organic ingredients with international techniques in such dishes as crudo, ceviche, and as an example, Harrison Ranch Chicken with vegetables a la Grecque. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch.

Address: 904 North Sycamore Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038 Website

This chic restaurant set in Hollywood's Media District serves California-inspired French bistro cuisine along with an extensive bar program for dinner and late-night dining. The menu includes roast chicken, seafood, steak tartare, and a 32-ounce dry-aged rib-eye steak.

Address: 5955 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90038 Phone: (323) 460-4170 Website

Seafood in creative presentations that are both gorgeous and delicious is the focus of this prix-fixe dining experience. Led by James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Cimarusti, this Michelin-starred restaurant is the place for special dinners and superb service.

L' Antiqua Pizzeria da Michele

Address: 1534 North McCadden Place, Los Angeles, Ca 90028 Phone: (323) 366-2408 Website

Pizza, pasta, salads, and a wide variety of appetizers make this more than a pizzeria, although the pizza has a great following. Breakfast and brunch specialties are favorites too, as are the cheese and charcuterie boards.

Beach Cities/West Side

Address: 101 Wilshire Boulevard, Santa Monica, CA 90401 Phone: (310) 319-3111 Website

This lively bistro at the Fairmont Miramar serves fresh, local ingredients in Mediterranean-style preparations. Open all day, they offer happy hour specials and an exceptional selection of international and domestic cheeses.

The Rose Venice

Address: 220 Rose Avenue, Venice, CA 90291 Phone: (310) 399-0711 Website

Modern California cuisine in a casual atmosphere. Great baked goods, indoor/outdoor dining; extensive takeout selection.

Little Sister, Redondo Beach

Address: 247 Avenida del Norte, Redondo Beach, CA 90277 Phone: (424) 398-0237 Website

South Bay locations in Redondo Beach and Manhattan Beach (also DTLA ) serve Southeast Asian cuisine in a seasonally evolving menu. Favorite dishes include green papaya salad, a variety of spring rolls, Vietnamese crepe, and shaky shaky beef.

Address: 13301 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91423 Phone: (818) 788-4868 Website

Operating in the San Fernando Valley for more than 62 years, Casa Vega began on Olvera Street downtown. An extensive menu of Mexican favorites, cocktails, beers, and wines served in a friendly, festive atmosphere.

Address: 11941 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, CA 91604 Phone: (818) 760-3348

One of L.A.'s top Japanese restaurants, Asanebo has been recognized with Michelin stars. Traditional sushi and sashimi in addition to their signature dishes like halibut truffle, toro tartare, ceviche, and more are served along with a selection of sake, beers, and champagnes.

Address: 800 West Olympic Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90015 Website

This entertainment complex features movie theaters, a concert hall, restaurants, convention center, and special events. The Ritz-Carlton Los Angeles, JW Marriott, and Staples Center are adjacent to the complex.

Crypto.com Arena

Address: 1111 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA 90001 Website

This multi-purpose arena hosts concerts and sports events for the Kings (NHL hockey), Lakers, Clippers (NBA basketball), and Sparks (WNBA basketball).

Music Center

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

Address: 135 North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Website

This performing arts center includes the Los Angeles Opera, Ahmanson Theater, Mark Taper Forum, L. A. Master Chorale, L. A. Philharmonic Orchestra, Walt Disney Concert Hall, and Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Dining venues include Abernethy's, Cocina Roja, cocktail lounges, and casual cafes.

Address: 221 South Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012 Website

A contemporary art museum with more than 2,000 works, The Broad includes a permanent collection and special exhibits. General admission is free, but reservations are recommended and can be booked online. A standby line is available, and waiting time varies.

Downtown LA Walking Tours

Address: 600 West 9th Street, #603, Los Angeles, CA 90015 Website

Offering both public and private tours, the knowledgeable and engaging guides take visitors through L.A.'s highlights including filming locations, historic sites, and landmarks. Stories and background details on the locales make the tours entertaining and educational.

Grand Central Market

Address: 317 South Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013 Website

More than a hundred years old, the market offers a variety of vendors for produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, coffee, ice cream, prepared foods, and more. It's a popular spot for takeout or for a quick bite at the adjacent outdoor tables.

Beverly Hills/Culver City

The original farmers market.

Address: 6333 West Third Street, Los Angeles, CA 90036 Website

A historic landmark and home to specialty markets, restaurants, prepared foods, produce, and more, the Original Farmers Market is a favorite for both locals and visitors. Baked goods, ice cream, coffee, and ethnic dishes keep the market hopping from breakfast through dinner.

Sony Pictures Studio

Address: 10201 West Washington Boulevard, Culver City, CA 90232 Website

Their two-hour guided walking tour takes guests through a working studio where movies and TV shows are filmed. There's also a three-hour VIP Lunch Tour. Tours are presented on weekdays only, and reservations are required.

Getty Center

Address: 1200 Getty Center Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90049 Website

This striking hilltop white travertine building houses permanent collections, special exhibits, and a magnificent garden as well as an excellent restaurant and casual cafe. Admission is free and there is a charge for parking. Check the website for visiting information.

Melting Pot Food Tours

Address: 8484 Wilshire Boulevard, #515, Beverly Hills, CA 90211 Website

Sampling and tasting along the way, guests learn about the various ethnic foods of Los Angeles neighborhoods including East L.A. Latin Flavors, Thai Town, and Little India. Visit the highlights of Old Pasadena or enjoy tapas and paella on La Espanola VIP Tour.

Griffith Park

Tobiah Lui/Travel + Leisure

Address : 4730 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90027 Website

Set in the Santa Monica Mountains on more than 4,210 acres, Griffith Park is one of the country's largest municipal parks. Activities include hiking, bicycling, camping, horseback riding, swimming, golf, picnicking, and tennis. The Greek Theater outdoor concert venue, Travel Town Museum, Griffith Observatory, and Los Angeles Zoo are part of Griffith Park.

Universal Studios Hollywood

Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608 Website

This theme park and studio includes rides, shows, attractions, and tours of sound stages and movie sets. Adjacent CityWalk offers shopping, restaurants, entertainment, theaters, and iFly, a vertical wind tunnel.

Ovation Hollywood

Address: 6801 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028 Website

The Hollywood Walk of Fame, Dolby Theater (home of the Academy Awards), restaurants, shops, entertainment, and views of the Hollywood Sign attract visitors to this famous corner. You'll probably encounter costumed characters from favorite films for Instagrammable selfies.

South Bay Beaches

Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach Website

White sand shores, cool breezes, and ocean waves welcome swimmers, surfers, and sunbathers to the beaches of the South Bay. Restaurants, outdoor cafes, shops, and fishing piers in each city attract visitors to the beaches during the day and, after sunset, to the nightlife in town.

Santa Monica Pier

Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401 Website

A classic arcade, amusement park rides, shops, and dining venues line the pier, the official beginning of Route 66. Watch the sunset, visit the aquarium, fly on a trapeze, or just enjoy people watching on the always lively pier at the end of Colorado Boulevard.

Venice Beach

Venice Boulevard and Ocean Front Walk Website

Browse the kitschy shops or street vendors, watch skateboarders at Venice Skatepark or workouts at Muscle Beach Gym, stop for a bite to eat, or just stroll along the Strand to enjoy the unique atmosphere of Venice. A few blocks inland, take a walk along the canals, crossing quaint bridges, and ogling homes that range from tiny cottages to contemporary mansions.

Warner Bros. Studios

Address: 3400 Warner Boulevard, Burbank, CA 91505 Website

Visitors can explore a working studio, backlots, and sound stages on guided tours, including a special Classics Tour that focuses on the Golden Age of film and TV. Casual dining and souvenir shopping are available. Purchase tickets in advance of your visit on the studio website.

Descanso Gardens

Address: 1418 Descanso Drive, La Canada Flintridge, CA 91011 Website

Gardens include the Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, Camellia Collection, Oak Forest, Ancient Forest, and displays of native and edible plants. Ride the Enchanted Railroad through the gardens, stop at the gift shop, or enjoy a casual meal at Cafe Descanso.

NoHo Arts District

Address: Magnolia Boulevard at Lankershim Boulevard, North Hollywood, CA 91601

This small but thriving arts community boasts theaters, cafes, shops, live music, art galleries, dance studios, acting workshops, and a Saturday farmers' market. The Valley location is convenient to a Metro Red Line station, making it easy to visit and probably contributing to the ongoing development of the area.

Address: 7th Street and Figueroa, Los Angeles, CA Phone: (213) 955-7170 Website

Shops include Nordstrom Rack, H & M, Zara, Pink, Sunglass Hut, and MAC Cosmetics. Concerts, kids' activities, films, and special events add entertainment. A variety of casual eateries and free Wi-Fi are available.

Address: 700 South Flower Street, Los Angeles, CA 90017 Phone: (213) 454-4926 Website

Spanning a downtown city block, this center includes Macy's, Nordstrom Local, a 24-hour Fitness Center, and a variety of eateries. The Sheraton Grand Hotel is in the center, and the 7th Street Metro station is conveniently nearby.

DTLA Fashion District

Amanda Blackard/Travel + Leisure

This favorite area for bargain hunters and shopping fans includes the Flower Market, the largest in the United States, the Fabric District, Gallery Row, and Santee Alley's open air shops. The district is open to the public as well as the trade.

DTLA Jewelry District

Nearly 5,000 retail jewelry businesses feature diamonds, gold, silver, beads, watches, pearls, gemstones, and custom jewelry designers. Buyers paying wholesale prices can save about 50% compared to retail.

Citadel Outlets

Address: 100 Citadel Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90040 Phone: (323) 888-1724 Website

Everyone loves a bargain, and there are many to be found among the more than 130 designer and brand name stores at the outlet mall in the City of Commerce. Stores include Armani, Hugo Boss, Carters for Kids, Coach, Disney, Kate Spade, Oakley, and Vans.

Beverly Center

Address: 8500 Beverly Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90048 Phone: (310) 854-0070 Website

This pet-friendly center offers valet and self-parking in a newly renovated eight-story building. Designer shops, restaurants, specialty boutiques, and entertainment are featured in this popular shopping destination.

Westfield, Century City

Address: 10250 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90067 Phone: (310) 277-3898 Website

Nordstrom, Macys, Bloomingdales, and a variety of specialty and designer stores along with Eataly, Din Tai Fung, and other eateries attract shoppers to this newly renovated mall. The walkways, furnishings, and inviting plazas make browsing a favorite activity.

Address: 189 The Grove Drive, Los Angeles, CA 90036 Phone: (323) 900-8080 Website

This stylish shopping center is renowned for its retailers that include Barneys New York, Apple, Crate & Barrel, Shinola, and more, along with dining and a 14-screen art deco movie theater. Fountains, an exclusive concierge service, and concerts attract visitors as well as shoppers.

Address: 6801 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90028 Phone: (323) 817-0200 Website

Restaurants, shops, entertainment in the midst of Hollywood glamour describe Ovation Hollywood. Stores include Skechers, Forever 21, Victoria's Secret, Hot Topic, and more. A variety of restaurants, cafes, and dessert spots are available.

Universal City

Address: (818) 622-9841 Website

Adjoining Universal Studios theme park, this two block stretch of shops, restaurants, souvenirs, and entertainment is a popular date-night and family-friendly destination. Live music, dancing, and movie theaters are part of the fun.

Del Amo Fashion Center

Address: 3525 West Carson Street, Torrance, CA 90503 Phone: (310) 542-8525 Website

This three-level luxury mall in Torrance includes a new Nordstrom, Macys, Anthropologie, AMC movie theater, and dining at Lazy Dog Restaurant & Bar, P.F. Changs, Lemonade, Pink's Hot Dogs, and many more. Natural lighting and open areas make shopping there a pleasure.

Santa Monica Place

Christian Hundley/Travel + Leisure

Address: 395 Santa Monica Place, Santa Monica, CA 90401 Phone: (310) 260-8333 Website

Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, Disney Store, Coach, Free People, and a host of popular retailers attract shoppers to Santa Monica Place. There's dining, concierge service, and a children's museum.

Westfield Topanga & The Village

Address: 6600 Topanga Canyon Boulevard, Woodland Hills, CA 91303 Phone: (818) 594-8732 Website

Located in the Canoga Park area of the San Fernando Valley, the indoor Westfield mall and outdoor Village include luxury stores, boutiques, spa, salons, and a Costco warehouse. Visitors can dine at The Cheesecake Factory, Il Fornaio, Larsen's Steakhouse, and more.

Sherman Oaks Galleria

Address: 15301 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91430 Phone: (818) 382-4100 Website

This open-air business and lifestyle center includes office space as well as retail and entertainment space. The mall has been a shooting location for several films including "Fast Times at Ridgemont High" and "Valley Girl."

Within each major section of Los Angeles are neighborhoods with their own character, style, and dynamics. We describe several here, and with the ever changing nature of the city, you're likely to discover other interesting communities as you explore Los Angeles.

The Arts District, formerly an industrial area, is becoming home to galleries, studios, media companies, and hip dining spots.
Chinatown is the place for a variety of restaurants, shops, herbal stores, antiques, and bustling alleys.
The Fashion District is the center of the apparel industry, with wholesalers, designers, retailers, and bargain shopping.
Olvera Street at Historic El Pueblo is the birthplace of Los Angeles where visitors finde Mexican food, crafts, music, and cultural events.
Brentwood/Bel Air - upscale homes, UCLA, shops, restaurants, and Getty Center on a hilltop overlooking the area.
Beverly Hills is the place for designer shops on Rodeo Drive, top restaurants, and elegant homes.
Century City's high-rise buildings and Westfield Mall define the neighborhood once dominated by 20th Century Fox Studios.
Culver City's restaurants, galleries, and Sony Picture Studios make this eclectic neighborhood worth a visit.

Hollywood/West Hollywood

Hollywood & Vine, the Hollywood Walk of Fame sidewalk stars, Hollywood & Highland complex, Hollywood Bowl, and Chinese Theater define its role in show business.
West Hollywood's Design District, Pacific Design Center, restaurants, walkable streets, and Sunset Strip nightlife make it a must-visit neighborhood.
Los Feliz is a blend of hip and historic, with Frank Lloyd Wright homes and eclectic eateries.
Silver Lake's trendy cafes, street art, music venues, architecture, and walking trails add to the appeal of this residential neighborhood.
The South Bay area includes Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach, all with white sand beaches, shops, restaurants, nightlife, and a relaxed vibe.
Santa Monica's amusement park on the pier, its walkable streets, stores, restaurants, and hotels make it a popular destination.
Malibu is known for its exclusive beaches, opulent homes, celebrity sightings, and ocean views as well as its hiking trails and canyons.
San Pedro offers an aquarium, fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, the Battleship USS Iowa, and Ports o' Call Village for shopping and browsing.
North Hollywood (NoHo) is not in Hollywood, but the north end of the Valley, with entertainment, restaurants, and the Great Wall of Los Angeles art mural.
Studio City is known for movie studios, including CBS Studios, NBC, and Warner Brothers.
Ventura Boulevard boasts trendy restaurants, boutiques, and vintage shops.
For hiking and outdoor activities, there's Wilacre Park and Fryman Canyon Park.

Los Angeles weather — temperature, cloud cover, humidity — varies significantly over the large area of the city. Coastal areas are generally cooler, and mornings are often cloudy with clearing by early afternoon, mainly a feature of early summer weather. The valley and inland areas are warm and dry, often as much as twenty degrees warmer than the coast. Most of the annual rainfall occurs in winter.

The following are average Fahrenheit lows and highs by month.

January 46 - 67 February 48 - 69 March 49 - 69 April 51 - 72 May 55 - 74 June 59 - 78 July 62 - 84 August 64 - 85 September 62 - 83 October 57 - 79 November 51 - 72 December 46 - 68

Discover Los Angeles app : Provides information on daily events, accommodations by neighborhood, film locations, and free Wi-Fi locations.

Google Maps : Useful for navigating, directions, and trip planning.

Uber & Lyft : Let someone else do the driving.

Open Table and Resy : Provide restaurant reviews, locations, cuisine, and reservations.

Transit : The official Metro Los Angeles app helps plan your trip with options that include public transportation, bikeshare, scooter, and rideshare.

Universal Studios Hollywood Mobile app : Navigate the park and CityWalk with interactive maps, wait times, show times, and more.

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The 15 best weekend getaways from los angeles.

From the Sequoias to the Mojave Desert, ditch the city streets for a quick escape from LA.

The Best Weekend Getaways From LA

Two kids carrying surfboards and running on the beach toward the ocean at sunset while their father sits on a car watching.

Getty Images

If you're tired of sitting in traffic on the 405 or need a break from your Zoom calls in the City of Angels, you're in luck: Los Angeles sits close to a wide variety of vacation spots that are perfect for a weekend away. The options can range from scenic mountain destinations to relaxing desertscapes to small coastal towns – or even to lively Las Vegas. Whatever you choose for your weekend trip, it's time to take a break from the bustle of Los Angeles and head out for a new adventure with your best friends , significant other or entire family .

Best Weekend Getaways From Los Angeles:

About one hour or less:, catalina island, california, laguna beach, california, about two hours or less:, santa barbara, california, big bear lake, california, palm springs, california, about three hours or less:, joshua tree national park, california, about four hours or less:, san luis obispo, california, paso robles, california, about five hours or less:, death valley national park, california, a quick flight:, mammoth lakes, california, carmel, california, puerto vallarta, mexico, whistler, british columbia.

Aerial of Catalina Island in Southern California.

Rather than taking a road trip from Los Angeles, how about hopping on a boat? Catalina Island , located a little more than 20 miles from the Southern California shoreline, is accessible from the San Pedro neighborhood of LA or from Long Beach via a Catalina Express ferry. The island is full of adventure, romance, relaxation and sightseeing both on land and in the ocean. Once you arrive in Avalon, the main city, you can take a walking tour at the historic Catalina Casino, rent a golf cart to cruise around, explore historic El Rancho Escondido or enjoy the thrill of an ecotour by zip line. Vacationers may also enjoy hitting the beach at Descanso Beach Club

Enjoy fresh lobster at The Lobster Trap, grab a beer at Flx Biergarten, the island's only beer garden, or dine with harbor views at Avalon Grille, in the recently renovated Hotel Atwater.

For an unforgettable weekend stay, book a room at the sophisticated Mt Ada. This romantic bed-and-breakfast features a wraparound deck with expansive ocean views. Guests have access to their own golf cart, as well as complimentary breakfast, lunch and snacks. Just outside of Avalon, Hamilton Cove has private villas perched on a hillside overlooking the Catalina coastline – or, if you want to rough it in the outdoors, campsites are also available at the island's campgrounds.

Aerial of homes along the coastal cliffs of Laguna Beach, California.

About 50 miles south of Los Angeles you'll find picturesque Laguna Beach , also known as the California Riviera. This chic coastal town in Orange County comes complete with high-end boutiques, five-star accommodations, gourmet restaurants and art galleries galore. If you plan your weekend trip for the summer, you may be able to catch one of the world-famous art festivals hosted by Laguna Beach, such as the Sawdust Art Festival. Art lovers can also take a Laguna Beach Walks self-guided walking tour that showcases the city's public art, at any time of year. The newly revamped Rivian Theater – built in the 1930s – features art and nature-inspired documentary films and community events. Travelers seeking outdoor adventure will have plenty of opportunities, whether you opt to kayak above the kelp forest, peruse tide pools in Heisler Park , or head to the 7,000-acre Laguna Coast Wilderness Park for hiking and mountain biking.

Laguna Beach has an abundance of upscale dining options, as well as casual fare. Enjoy sushi seaside at Hotel Laguna's Fin restaurant, listen to live jazz at The Drake or grab an Acai bowl from Alohana Acai Bowls or Acai Republic and head to the beach. For a luxury weekend stay, the five-star Montage Laguna Beach resort features seaside balconies, California coastal cuisine and an elegant indoor/outdoor spa. If you're craving a cozy canyon environment, The Ranch at Laguna Beach is tucked into green hillsides and boasts an array of amenities, such as a nine-hole golf course, a relaxing spa and farm-to-table dining at Harvest restaurant.

Palm trees against a vibrant sunset in Santa Barbara, California.

For serene coastal vibes and seaside views about 95 miles west of LA, Santa Barbara is a great escape in Southern California – especially for pet owners, since it's one of the top dog-friendly beach destinations in the U.S. With its balmy Mediterranean climate, cultural offerings, star-studded beaches and flourishing culinary scene, it's no wonder Santa Barbara draws millions of vacationers each year. Oenophiles will have the opportunity to explore more than 20 local wineries along the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail – some, like Pali Wine Company, allow dogs.

For a focus on wellness, you can do a sound bath in a salt cave or on a sailboat, take a sunset stroll along the beach , head out on the water on a kayak or wander through the lush gardens at Lotusland in nearby Montecito.

Accommodations range from luxury resorts to laid-back boutique hotels. The El Encanto a Belmond Hotel has chic coastal rooms, suites and bungalows with lush hilltop gardens and expansive ocean views, sensory-inspired wellness at the spa and excursions that highlight the best of Santa Barbara. New on the scene, Drift Santa Barbara is a minimalist hotel with a modern vibe that is perfect for a solo retreat or a couple's escape.

Santa Barbara has a compelling culinary scene overall, with plenty of farm-to-table options that focus on locally sourced ingredients. Swing by the Santa Barbara Public Market for a variety of vendors serving everything from hardy sandwiches at Wexler's Deli to Mexican street food at Corazon Cocina. For a fun girls lunch, head to El Encanto or San Ysidro Ranch for afternoon tea.

Colorful sunset over Big Bear Lake in California.

A cold-weather getaway to Big Bear Lake is about 120 miles east of LA and is a prime winter destination for skiers and snowboards. In the warmer seasons, Big Bear Lake becomes a hub for boating, hiking and biking, so this small city in the San Bernardino National Forest makes an ideal trip year-round. Get out on the lake in a rented pontoon boat, paddleboard, kayak and more – or, for an off-road adventure, the Big Bear Jeep Experience is a popular activity, as is the Mineshaft Coaster. Fuel up with a juicy burger at 572 Social Kitchen & Lounge, dine on delicious Italian cuisine at the Sweet Basil Bistro or sip a craft brew at Big Bear Lake Brewing Company.

Although plenty of visitors opt for a daytrip to Big Bear, consider extending your getaway with a stay at the new kitschy Noble + Proper, where every two-story cabin is themed after a specific character, so it's as if you're staying in their home. Another newcomer is Sessions Retreat Hotel which encourages social interaction with community games and a fire pit.

Pond in front of golf course at Indian Wells Golf Resorts with San Bernardino Mountains in the background in Palm Springs, California.

If a desert escape is what you're craving, head to the Palm Springs area. Relaxation here may include lounging by the pool, cocktail in hand, at a stylish midcentury modern home or hotel. To explore more of what Palm Springs has to offer, visitors can hike through the desert and mountains, visit Cabot's Pueblo Museum or the impressive Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, browse shops on Palm Canyon Drive , or take the scenic Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for an incomparable view atop Mount San Jacinto (where you'll see snow in winter). One buzz-worthy new attraction in this resort city is the Palm Springs Surf Club, which features a state-of-the-art wave pool.

With Palm Springs sitting a little more than 100 miles east of Los Angeles, A-listers flock to this desert destination for much-needed wellness and relaxation. Soak in the hot mineral springs at The Spa at Séc-he, detox at We Care Spa, meet with a mindset practitioner at Sensei Porcupine Creek or partake in a sonic healing at Integration.

For unique accommodations, stay in a modernized Airstream at the new Acres Landing, enjoy a minimalist retreat at Drift Palm Springs, embrace midcentury modern design at Mahala or find serenity at the adults-only Azure Sky Hotel.

Pathway along Big Rock Reef at Windansea Beach in San Diego.

San Diego has it all, from charming coves in La Jolla and expansive beaches in Coronado, to historic Old Town and shopping and dining in the Gaslamp Quarter. Catch some waves, visit a museum, or listen to the symphony at Jacobs Music Center – which will reopen in September after a $125-million-dollar renovation. Take a tour of an aircraft carrier, ride a roller coaster at nearly 100-year-old Belmont Park, go whale watching or take a street art tour with San Diego Street Tours, there is something for everyone in America's Finest City.

At the five-star Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa , stay in a casita amongst lush gardens and groves, up your game of tennis or pickleball with 20 courts, indulge in farm-to-table coastal ranch cuisine and get pampered at the spa with relaxing treatments, a plunge pool, body sculpting, a yoga pavilion and hydrotherapy circuit.

In Carlsbad, less than 5 miles from LEGOLAND California, enjoy a luxury getaway at the dog-friendly Park Hyatt Aviara Resort, Golf Club & Spa . The resort features an Arnold Palmer-designed golf course, the award-winning Miraval Life in Balance Spa, cooking and fitness classes and innovative restaurants. Kids will love the waterslides, lagoon trail and s'mores.

San Diego is a foodie haven. Whether you're in the mood for a Michelin-star meal at Addison, top-shelf matcha at Lovesong Coffee, French cuisine at Le Coq, a fast-casual meal in Liberty Station, whimsical brunch at Morning Glory or swanky Mexican at Quixote in The Lafayette Hotel, you'll find something to please even the pickiest or most refined palates.

Cholla Cactus Garden in Joshua Tree National Park at sunset.

Experience the Zen of the desert and the majestic natural wonders that await in Joshua Tree National Park , about 130 miles east of Los Angeles (and not too far from Palm Springs). Explore the 800,000 acres of desert wilderness through hiking, biking, rock climbing , horseback riding, backpacking and photography.

Before you head out, stop by the Joshua Tree Visitor & Cultural Center in Twentynine Palms, California, to see rotating exhibits celebrating Indigenous culture, along with maps, park information and safety tips. As you traverse Joshua Tree, be sure to take in sights such as Skull Rock , Black Rock Canyon, Cottonwood Spring and Covington Flats.

With more than 500 campsites in the park – most of which are available by reservation – camping is one of the most accessible ways to experience an overnight stay. Or, upgrade to AutoCamp Joshua Tree, where guests sleep in stylish and modern Airstream trailers, for a glamping experience . Outdoor enthusiasts may want to consider a stay at Field Station Joshua Tree, with a gear shop, pool and bocce ball. If budget is not an issue, you may choose to rent one of the most exclusive homes in the world: the Kellogg Doolittle House.

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Sunset view of valley with a large extinct volcanic mountain in the background in San Luis Obispo, California.

With around 287 days of sunshine, San Luis Obispo (nicknamed SLO) is the perfect year-round weekend destination – and one of the best places to visit in California – with picturesque beaches, a burgeoning farm-to-table culinary scene, rolling vineyards and plenty of small-town charm. Kick off a long weekend with a stop at a pedestrian-friendly farmers market held on Thursday evenings along Higuera Street downtown. Other SLO activity options include shopping for one-of-a-kind items at the JunkGirls shop, taking a surfing lesson or catching a movie at the nostalgic Sunset Drive-In. There are plenty of galleries to sate art lovers, but a more unconventional tourist attraction invites visitors to help make graffiti out of chewed gum in Bubblegum Alley. For a bit of California history, wander through the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

One thing you won't want to miss is the wine. Head to Chamisal Vineyards in nearby Edna Valley to sip chardonnay and pinot noir with views of the vineyards or do a "Zip 'n Sip" experience where you zip line over vineyards and do a wine tasting with Margarita Adventures.

For a one-of-a-kind overnight stay, the Madonna Inn has more than 100 guest rooms, each with a different theme, such as the Caveman, Love Nest, Pioneer America and Golfer's Room.

A naturally formed heart-shaped grove of oak trees, known locally as "Heart Hill" or "Valentine Hill," surrounded by grapevines in Paso Robles, California.

Head to central California's wine country for a visit to charming Paso Robles, a city about 230 miles northwest of LA that's located along coastal U.S. Route 101. Paso Robles is a community of cowboys, surfers and innovators; travelers can enjoy world-class food and wine as well as inspiring art and whole-body wellness here. You'll find more than 200 wineries in the region, complemented by a variety of craft breweries, cideries and distilleries in Paso Robles. A can't-miss nighttime activity is a self-guided stroll through the recently updated immersive Sensorio lights display.

Thanks to the world-class wines and family farms, Paso Robles is a mecca for delicious dining – including The Restaurant, which recently received a Michelin Green Star, at JUSTIN Winery and Vineyards; the Michelin-starred Six Test Kitchen, located inside the Tin City makers market; and Paso Market Walk, a reinvented farmers market. From rustic hideaways to glamping sites, Paso Robles also has lodging options to fit any taste and budget. For luxury accommodations, consider the boutique equine-themed Hotel Cheval, just off Paso Robles' historic town square, or their sister property, the Western chic Stables Inn. For something different, spend a night sleeping in a revamped shipping container at Geneseo Inn, the newly renovated and nostalgic Farm House motel, or the new River Lodge is a top spot for midcentury modern enthusiasts.

If you don't mind a bit longer drive, or you have some flexibility on your timing, these destinations offer a scenic drive and plenty to do when you arrive.

Las Vegas, Nevada

Aerial of the Las Vegas strip as seen at night.

If an adults-only weekend trip is what you have in mind, head out to Las Vegas , a vivacious and walkable city that is constantly evolving. Sitting about 270 miles north of Los Angeles, Las Vegas checks all the boxes for a memorable vacation. You can hit the slots at resorts like Wynn and Encore, catch in-residency concerts from big names such as Garth Brooks/Plus One or the Eagles at the new high-tech Sphere, or watch one of the best Las Vegas shows like the spectacular Awakening at Wynn or one of the many Cirque Du Soleil performances.

Make time for wellness and recovery with a treatment at a world-class spa like the Awana Spa at Resorts World with a crystal laconium room and rain walk or the Lapis Spa at the new Fontainebleau Las Vegas that features a snow shower and stargazing lounge.

Las Vegas is a top destination for foodies with a dining scene that boasts a variety of culinary choices. Enjoy a meal crafted by a celebrity chef at places like the new The Bedford by Martha Stewart or Orla by Michael Mina. Sip craft cocktails with a story at LPM Restaurant & Bar in The Cosmopolitan, order a tower of cocktails at Bellagio's newly renovated COMO Poolside Cafe or, at the new Vanderpump à Paris, try an impressive drink like the Louvre at First Sight.

Live it up like a high roller with a Fleur de Lis suite at the newest resort on the Strip, Fontainebleau. The suites include a private elevator, fresh flowers, butler service and VIP lounge. The luxury resort also features a poolside cinema (during spring and summer months), gaming lounge and day club; along with a variety of live entertainment and signature restaurants including upscale Chinese cuisine at Chyna Club.

Aerial of mudstone badlands at Zabriskie Point at sunrise in Death Valley National Park, California.

From Los Angeles, the closest paved entrance to Death Valley National Park is on California state Route 190; whichever route you take to get there, you'll likely want to budget around five hours for the drive, which is about 290 miles. Death Valley is the largest national park in the lower 48 states. Its 3.4 million acres include some of the most unique landscapes and sites you'll find anywhere – such as the Badwater Basin salt flats, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Rainbow Canyon and Artists Palette's colorful hills. Download the free National Park Service app to take a driving tour of "Star Wars" filming locations in the park. Death Valley also boasts some of the best stargazing opportunities in the U.S., as an International Dark Sky Park considered "Gold Tier," meaning there is minimal interference from light pollution.

The Oasis at Death Valley – part of the Xanterra Travel Collection – encompasses the romantic Inn at Death Valley and the family-friendly Ranch at Death Valley, which features a revitalized town square and new shops, including an ice cream parlor with an old-school soda fountain. There are also seasonal campgrounds and other inns and motels in the park.

Lake in foreground with mountain in background under blue skies in Mammoth Lakes, California.

If the mountains are calling you, head to the Sierra Nevada for a weekend in the resort town of Mammoth Lakes. Winter ushers in world-class downhill skiing, snowboarding, tubing and cross-country skiing in the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area. During the warmer months, visitors can take a scenic gondola ride, hike on the mountain or near the lakes, explore the mountain bike park, ride the mountain coaster, try the Via Ferrata or experience the new summer tubing.

For dog-friendly accommodation, check out the Outbound Mammoth resort with a pool, fire pits, steam room and video arcade, or the elegant Westin Monache Resort, Mammoth , located in The Village, with gondola access to the slopes, an upscale restaurant, fitness center and pool. Alternatively, stay lakeside at Tamarack Lodge & Resort with access to fishing, kayaking, paddleboarding, boating or cross-country skiing.

Dining options in the area include wine and charcuterie boards at The Shed, burgers, fondue and craft beer at Mammoth Tavern, and the new upscale Vulcania restaurant by celebrity chefs, the Voltaggio brothers.

White sand beach under a vibrant sunset sky in Carmel, California.

The 1-square-mile, European-style village of Carmel seamlessly blends history, arts and culture, and stunning ocean views for a relaxing and unique travel experience. Just off of state Route 1 near Monterey , this charming seaside destination about 320 miles northwest of LA is ideal for dreamy weekend getaways any time of year – especially if you have a canine companion in tow. Carmel boasts world-class art galleries, whimsical architecture, nearly 20 wine tasting rooms, the dog-friendly Carmel Beach, a few dozen secret passageways and more restaurants per capita than any other small U.S. city. Enjoy Mediterranean, Italian or French cuisine at quaint local eateries like La Balena, Dametra Cafe, Yafa, La Bicyclette and many more.

Book a stay in one of the historic inns, such as the "Grande Dame of Carmel": La Playa Carmel , a historic hotel with a prime view of Carmel Beach, perfect for evenings spent gazing out at the sunset or taking a moonlit walk in the sand. If you bring your fur baby with you on your weekend jaunt, Cypress Inn provides dog-friendly accommodations and is a short walk to Carmel Beach, where dogs can run off leash.

Sunset view over Our Lady of Guadalupe cathedral with the ocean in the background in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

If you're willing to take to the skies, you can leave California – and the U.S. – altogether for a quick weekend trip to Mexico. Grab your besties or your significant other for a flight to Puerto Vallarta, a resort town on Mexico's Pacific coast, and after about three hours on a plane, you can sip margaritas with your toes in the sand. There's plenty to do in Puerto Vallarta: Sail to the Marieta Islands to discover a hidden beach, take a whale watching tour or stroll along the iconic El Malecón boardwalk for souvenirs, ocean views and street performances. Beyond the shoreline, travelers can visit the nearby village of Sayulita for artwork by Huichol Indigenous people or dance the night away in lively nightclubs.

For an all-inclusive stay, Casa Velas is a boutique, adults-only resort that offers laid-back luxury in an intimate setting. If you're traveling with your family, consider Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit , which features entertainment, dining and activities like kids and teens clubs. Try the Hydrotherapy Circuit at the five-star spa or feast on innovative global cuisine at the property's many restaurants. Look for the "insta spot" signs for tips on where to snap the best selfies.

Gondola connecting Whistler and Blackcomb mountains.

Catch an approximately two-and-a-half-hour flight from LA to Vancouver and then enjoy a scenic 80-mile shuttle ride north to the mountain town of Whistler . Whistler Blackcomb resort hosts year-round outdoor activities such as snowboarding, skiing, ice fishing, snowmobiling and ice climbing in the winter and mountain biking, zip lining, hiking and Via Ferrata in the summer. On the mountain, there's also the Whistler Olympic Sliding Centre where visitors can try the thrilling sports of bobsledding, luge and skeleton. About 17 miles to the east of Whistler, is the Whistler Olympic Park with biathlon, tobogganing, snowshoeing and more. For a less active visit, take the Peak to Peak scenic gondola, enjoy a summer concert, helicopter tour or a day of relaxing in a thermal bath at Scandinave Spa.

In Whistler Village, you'll find hotels, restaurants, shops, entertainment and art and culture venues such as the Squamish Lil'wat Cultural Centre, Whistler Museum and Audain Art Museum. For an immersive nighttime experience in an enchanted forest, make the 6-mile drive to Vallea Lumina.

The Fairmont Château Whistler offers five-star on-slope accommodation at the base of Blackcomb Mountain. Guests are treated to top-notch amenities including ski valet, 18-hole golf course, an Ayurvedic spa with outdoor cedar saunas and an indoor/outdoor swim-through pool. Dining options in The Village include fine dining at Wild Blue Restaurant + Bar with locally sourced seafood, fondue at Fairmont Château Whistler's The Chalet open during the winter months and Bearfoot Bistro with a Grey Goose Ice Room for doing shots of vodka in a sub-zero temperature.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Sharael Kolberg is a U.S. News & World Report contributor who has lived in Southern California for 15 years. She loves doing road trips or taking short flights to explore destinations for a change of scenery over a long weekend. Some of her favorite places are Whistler, Palm Springs and Las Vegas. Kolberg used her personal experience and exceptional research skills to update this list of the best weekend getaways from Los Angeles.

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16 Picturesque Day Trips To Take From Los Angeles

These SoCal escapes make for the best day trips from Los Angeles, from the charming Danish town of Solvang to the alpine landscapes in Idyllwild.

Southern California is an international travel destination thanks to its wealth of beautiful nature escapes , unique small towns , scenic drives , and excellent weather year-round. We’re lucky to live within spitting distance of some truly spectacular locations, from picturesque national parks to fascinating beach cities. Next time you have a long weekend or a day off, consider embarking on one of these unbelievable day trips from Los Angeles , all of which you can reach by car in about two hours or less (and some by train or bus).

1. Angeles National Forest

A lake and mountain range under a clear sky at Angeles National Forest

Calling itself “LA’s backyard playground,” Angeles National Forest is one of the easiest Los Angeles day trips available. Explore 700,000 acres of diverse terrain from the high desert to the mountains, all with different levels of hiking difficulty, climates, and recreation options. Whether you’re seeking a low-elevation wildflower hike to make the most of your afternoon, or a steep snowy trek up Mt. Baldy, you’ll find that this local forest contains a lifetime of adventures for you to keep going back to.

🔎 Known for : Hiking, biking, camping, lakes, skiing

🚗 By car: 20 minutes from DTLA without traffic

🌐 Learn more : Angeles National Forest

Poeple gather on a pristine beach with bright blue water in Malibu

Famed for its many hillside celebrity mansions, Malibu has one of the most picturesque stretches of California coastline available to us. You don’t need to be a Hollywood star to enjoy a day trip here, whether you’re going for a relaxing afternoon at the beach or a foodie adventure. Devour a pound of calamari with your toes in the sand at Paradise Cove , explore the gorgeous Tuscan-style winery Cielo Farms , or take in the dramatic views at Point Dume. This is one of the best day trips from Los Angeles for those who want a quick A-to-B car journey and lots of flexibility.

🔎 Known for : Hiking, beaches, wineries, celebrity homes, shopping, dining, nightlife

🚗 By car: 35 minutes from DTLA without traffic

🚌 By public transportation : The 134 bus line goes from Downtown Santa Monica up the Pacific Coast Highway, with multiple stops in Malibu.

🌐 Learn more : City of Malibu

3. Red Rock Canyon State Park

Take in dramatic geographic rock formations at Red Rock Canyon State Park, located north of LA up Highway 14. You can see these enormous Aztec sandstone cliffs, reaching thousands of feet into the sky, at the Red Cliffs Natural Area right off the highway. This area was used as a Native American trade route for millennia and is the historic territory of the Kawaiisu people, who carved petroglyphs into the rock. These days, the park conserves paleontology sites dating from the pre-colonization era to 1890s-era mining operations. Whether you just want to drive out there for a photo op and a dramatic picnic view, or spend the whole day exploring over 100 scenic desert hiking trails , you’ll find that this is one of the best day trips from Los Angeles if you’re seeking a short drive with a huge payoff.

🔎 Known for : Hiking, horseback riding, camping, history, geographic elements

🚗 By car: 40 minutes from DTLA without traffic

🌐 Learn more : Red Rock Canyon State Park

4. San Juan Capistrano

A church ruin at Mission San Juan Capistrano.

This historic city in southern Orange County is centered around Mission San Juan Capistrano , the seventh of 21 Spanish missions throughout the state which subjugated tens of thousands of indigenous people to the devastating effects of colonization. Spanish missionary Junípero Serra founded the mission in 1776, making it nearly 250 years old , and you can still see many original elements of the historic structure today. As for the city itself, you’ll find even more elements that take you back in time — from walking down California’s oldest residential street (Los Rios Street), to buying Native American goods at Ortega’s Capistrano Trading Post, you’ll find there are prolific timeless corners to seek out.

🔎 Known for : California history, sightseeing, shopping, dining

🚗 By car: 50 minutes from DTLA without traffic

🚌 By public transportation : San Juan Capistrano Station connects to Metrolink trains from Orange County and the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner.

🌐 Learn more : City of San Juan Capistrano

5. Catalina Island

View of Catalina Island from a hilly street.

We’re lucky to enjoy a dramatic island escape right at our fingertips, just a one-hour ferry ride from LA. Santa Catalina Island is part of the Channel Islands archipelago off the coast of Southern California. Pick a sunny day to sail into one of the two small towns, Avalon or Two Harbors, and embark on a remarkable getaway filled with adventure, California history, and sightseeing. Whether you’re there for water sports like paddle boarding and snorkeling, or you’d rather seek out some of the historic buildings and shopping, you’ll find that this nearby island holds plenty of possibilities for every type of visitor.

🔎 Known for : Boating, ocean sports, wildlife watching, hiking, camping, shopping, dining, sightseeing

⛴️ By ferry : One- hour boat ride from Long Beach, San Pedro, Dana Point, and Newport Beach

🌐 Learn more : Visit Catalina Island

6. Laguna Beach

The Pirate Tower on Victoria Beach in Laguna Beach

Explore seven miles of scenic beaches and hidden coves in this quaint beach town near Los Angeles. Whether you make the trip to see the historic Pirate Tower at Victoria Beach , or to trek to the Thousand Steps Beach tide pool , you’ll find that Laguna Beach is a wonderful destination for coastal adventurers. The walkable seaside town was initially founded as an eclectic art colony , and you’ll find that the art scene continues to thrive today. Look for the famous annual art festivals , year-round art galleries, First Thursdays art walks, exhibits at the Laguna Art Museum, and so much more.

🔎 Known for : Beach activities, art galleries

🚗 By car : One hour from DTLA without traffic

🌐 Learn more : Visit Laguna Beach

7. Temecula

A hot air balloon flies over vineyards in Temecula, CA.

The wide range of activities in Temecula makes it an excellent destination for every type of travel group. Wine lovers enjoy exploring nearly fifty wineries throughout the valley, most of which offer luxurious tasting room experiences and property tours. The area is also known for bucket list -worthy hot air ballooning, especially at sunrise; shopping and entertainment along the delightful streets of Old Town Temecula; farm-to-table fine dining restaurants; and the many entertainment options available at the famous Pechanga Resort Casino.

🔎 Known for : Wine tasting, culinary scene, shopping, outdoor activities, hot air ballooning

🚗 By car : 1 hour and 30 minutes from DTLA without traffic

🚌 By public transportation : Flixbus has a three-hour route from L.A.’s Union Station to Temecula via Riverside.

🌐 Learn more : Visit Temecula Valley

Panoramic view of vineyards and fields in Ojai.

Ventura County’s charming city of Ojai is nestled in a valley beneath the Topatopa Mountains. Adventurers will want to look into outdoor activities including hiking, biking, and horseback riding through the Ojai Valley Land Conservancy. The area is known for harvesting stellar produce and natural products, especially citrus and olive oil, and you can look into local food tours or farmers’ markets that showcase the bounty of the land. Many visitors tap into the area’s natural serenity by booking in at the award-winning Spa Ojai or Meditation Mount, but literature lovers will want to explore Bart’s Books , an enormous maze of bookshelves stocking 130,000 works. Make sure you stay through sunset, because you can’t miss the famous “pink moment” in which the setting sun hits the mountains just right.

🔎 Known for : Outdoor activities, wellness retreats, arts & culture

🚗 By car: 1 hour and 30 minutes from DTLA without traffic

🚌 By public transportation : You can take the Metrolink from Union Station to Ventura and then catch bus line 16 from Ventura to Ojai. It’s about a 3 hour journey.

🌐 Learn more : Ojai Visitors

9. Oak Glen

Aerial view of Oak Glen during the fall.

Oak Glen is Southern California’s famous apple country , which, unlike Los Angeles, is at a high enough elevation to experience all four seasons. You’ll find that the fall is the best time to visit, given that most businesses are open and there’s plenty of fresh produce to take home, including apples, berries, and pumpkins. If you visit in the off-season, however, you’ll still find some lovely outdoor activities to enjoy. Visit in the spring to see the landscape bloom into a flurry of dainty apple blossoms , take a historic orchard tour, or have a picnic in the grass. In the winter, you’ll enjoy a cozy opportunity to the see the orchards blanketed in snow and sip on apple cider.

🔎 Known for : Apple orchards, agriculture, restaurants, shops, camping

🌐 Learn more : Oak Glen Apple Growers Association

10. Santa Barbara

Everyone knows that Santa Barbara is a major stop on the Pacific Coast Highway, and despite being a large city, it’s managed to retain a beachy, small-town vibe that’s nostalgic to anyone who grew up on the California coast. You’ll need to make various trips to enjoy everything that Santa Barbara has to offer, from eating and drinking your way through the Funk Zone, to taking pictures at the Spanish-style Santa Barbara Courthouse , to hiking Inspiration Point.

🔎 Known for : Beach activities, hiking, restaurants, shopping, sightseeing

🚗 By car : 1 hour and 40 minutes from DTLA without traffic

🚌 By public transportation : Routes are available via the Amtrak Pacific Surfliner, Santa Barbara Airbus, and Flixbus

🌐 Learn more : Santa Barbara

11. Palm Springs

Palm trees above the rooftops of a residential neighborhood in Palm Springs.

The stylish city of Palm Springs makes for a no-brainer day trip from Los Angeles for just about any type of tourist . It’s hard to beat the sunny climate , gorgeous mid-century modern architecture , proximity to the Coachella Valley’s sprawling natural desert , and wealth of attractions. Thousands drive or fly out to Palm Springs for Coachella , which is right nearby, but Hollywood stars have been drawn to the iconic desert city for decades as a pleasant escape from LA life. Soak in 12,000-year-old natural hot springs at Spa at Séc-he, owned by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, or go golfing at over 100 pristine golf courses in the “Golf Capital of the World.”

🔎 Known for : Natural hot springs, architecture, shopping, golf

🚗 By car: 1 hour and 40 minutes from DTLA without traffic

🚌 By public transportation : Flixbus 2056 can take you directly from Union Station to Palm Springs Downtown. The ride is about 3.5 hours.

🌐 Learn more : Visit Palm Springs

12. Solvang

A row of Danish-style buildings in Solvang.

This dreamy town near Santa Barbara is known as the “Danish Capital of America” for its Scandinavian architecture and heritage. You’ll want to pick up delicate Danish pastries and pancake-like æbleskiver at one of the authentic local bakeries, and then stroll through the town to take in the Little Mermaid Fountain, windmills, and the giant red clog . Beyond the Danish cultural landmarks and museums, this area is known for its many vineyards, and you should leave time for some wine tasting downtown. If possible, time your visit with one of Solvang’s highly-anticipated events including Solvang Festival Theater from June through September, Danish Days in September, and the Christmassy Julefest festival in December. We’d also be remiss not to tell you about OstrichLand USA just up the road, a popular attraction where you’ll find over 100 ostriches and emus roaming about that you can feed yourself.

🔎 Known for : Danish architecture, Danish food, shopping, seasonal events, wine tasting

🚗 By car: 2 hours from DTLA without traffic

🌐 Learn more : Solvang USA

13. Idyllwild

A rustic building among the trees in Idyllwild, CA.

Take a trip out to the San Jacinto Mountains to discover Idyllwild, a tiny town whose mile-high elevation and scenic wilderness make for an unforgettable weekend or day trip from Los Angeles by car. Most visitors are likely to plan a breathtaking hike during their stay, with some of the most popular trails being the South Ridge, Deer Springs, Devil’s Slide, and Seven Pines. Nature lovers also explore the area by camping, biking, and rock climbing. Leave some time to explore the town itself too, whose adorable shops and restaurants take inspiration from the alpine surroundings.

🔎 Known for : Hiking, biking, camping, alpine wilderness

🌐 Learn more : Idyllwild.com

14. Joshua Tree

Joshua trees in the desert at Joshua Tree National Park.

Two different desert ecosystems merge at the famous Joshua Tree National Park : the Mojave Desert from the north and the Colorado Desert from the south. The result is a wind-sculpted rocky landscape populated with fascinating plants and animals throughout the varied topography. Elevation ranges between 900-5,000 feet above sea level across 800,000 acres , with diverse terrain including sand dunes, flat valleys, craggy mountains, and pristine oases. Whether you visit for an easy trail jaunt, sight-seeing, and a picnic, or you plan out a long weekend of camping and difficult hiking trails, you’ll find that Joshua Tree’s endless natural wonders will make you want to keep coming back.

🔎 Known for : Hiking, camping, rock climbing, wildlife watching, stargazing, wildflowers

🌐 Learn more : Joshua Tree National Park

15. Big Bear Lake

A snowy Big Bear Lake during the winter.

Big Bear is SoCal’s favorite alpine lake getaway with lovely activities to enjoy every single season. The twenty-two miles of shoreline bear endless tranquil beaches, docks, and lookout points to take in the views. Hit the slopes at Bear Mountain or Snow Summit ski resorts , go shopping around the adorable Big Bear Lake Village , enjoy camping and swimming during the summer months, or go for a wildfire hike in the spring. We’re unbelievably lucky to have this scenic oasis just two hours from Los Angeles.

🔎 Known for : Hiking, stargazing, skiing, lake activities

🚗 By car : 2 hours from DTLA without traffic

🌐 Learn more : Big Bear Lake

16. Los Alamos

Los Alamos is a tiny town in the Santa Ynez Valley known for its old-fashioned, western styling; historic buildings; and surrounding agriculture. The town’s population is only about 1,890, and the entire main street is only seven blocks long, stacked with a variety of antique shops, art galleries, tasting rooms, and exquisite restaurants. If you decide to stay overnight, consider opting for the Victorian-style Union Hotel dating back to 1880. Los Alamos makes for a lovely destination on its own or a fun stop on your longer trip to Santa Barbara.

🔎 Known for : History, agriculture, shopping, restaurants

🚗 By car : 2 hours and 20 minutes from DTLA without traffic

🌐 Learn more : Visit the Santa Ynez Valley

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The best road trips from L.A.

From weekend jaunts to extended vacations, here’s a list of the best road trips from L.A.

One of our favorite things about L.A. is that you can leave its urban sprawl at a moment’s notice and suddenly find yourself surrounded by nature just a few miles out of town. Whether you’re interested in a whole weekend getaway (hello, Vegas or Big Sur) or need a nearby day trip to get some fresh air (maybe Joshua Tree?), this list has a destination for every kind of traveler.

We’ve included some suggestions of things to see and do at each locale, but for some of the bigger destinations—like nearby desert and Bay Area cities—we’ve focused more on the journey, with links out to full guides to each spot for once you’ve wrapped up the road part of your trip. So hop in the car, crank up the tunes and take your pick of scenery: Forest, beach , desert and mountain landscapes all make up these gorgeous road trips from L.A. Happy travels!

RECOMMENDED: The best day trips from Los Angeles

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Top road trips from L.A.

1. palm springs.

Miles from L.A.: ~105 Suggested round-trip time: 2 days min. A quick and easy trip from L.A., Palm Springs is definitely doable over a weekend. Head east past miles of wind farms, where turbines cast formidable shadows and make an otherwise monotone landscape come alive. Look out for prehistoric creatures on the side of the road; the 50-foot Cabazon Dinosaurs (a Brontosaurus and a T. Rex, to be exact) are a popular roadside attraction. You can check out the gift shop (in the bront’s belly), but to climb to the top of the T. Rex and sit in his mouth (a la Pee-wee during his big adventure), you’ll have to fork over $15 and weave your way through a fascinating, if factually inaccurate dino park. When you arrive in Palm Springs, pick up a map of modernist buildings at the Albert Frey-designed Palm Springs Visitors Center for a self-guided architecture tour of the town.

Discover the best things to do in Palm Springs .

2. Joshua Tree

Miles from L.A.: ~130 Suggested round-trip time: 2–3 days min. Joshua Tree is one of the most magical places in California (and the country, we think). The national park’s varied and alien landscapes—due mostly to gnarled, ancient Joshua Trees and giant boulders strewn willy nilly—make for impressive scenery during leisurely drives. The stargazing is choice here, and wild coyotes may howl you to sleep if you plan an overnight camping trip. Stop at Pappy & Harriet’s for lunch on the way, and stick around for live music and a ghost-town stroll. Pick up a new houseplant at the Cactus Mart , or visit the Integratron (reservations required) for a new-age sound bath and a shady hammock nap. The town of Joshua Tree itself also offers some fun stops, such as the World Famous Crochet Museum , filled with the kind of quirky public art that only exists in tiny, warm-weather communities .

Discover the best things to do in Joshua Tree .

3. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Miles from L.A.: ~235 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. If you’re a tree lover, you must go see the giant redwoods of Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks . Driving through and under such gentle giants is an experience that can only be had on the way to and within these parks. Sequoia is slightly more drive-and-look friendly, with cool attractions like the General Sherman Tree, the largest living thing in the world; Tunnel Log, a fallen, hollowed out Sequoia that you can drive your car through; and Moro Rock, a dome-shaped peak accessible via a couple hundred steps. Meanwhile, the winding roads and backcountry trails in Kings Canyon are on every hiker’s bucket list (the drive to the end of Highway 180 is worth it even if you don’t plan on pushing yourself on foot). Just make sure to check conditions before you go: Some roads close after the summer season, and there’s always a risk of wildfires in the area.

4. Las Vegas

Miles from L.A.: ~270 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. Our advice? Never fly to Vegas; the drive is too much fun to miss (well, aside from the traffic on the way home ). First, check out Calico Ghost Town . It’s not the most authentic of ghost towns , but it’s a worthwhile detour for a bit of Wild West history. For something a little stranger, look out for exit 23 on the 15, which will lead you to the ruins of the former Zzyzx Mineral Springs and Health Spa. Created by criminal, quack radio evangelist Curtis Howe Springer back in 1944, the resort duped visitors into thinking they were soaking in healing natural hot springs, when in reality all the pools were boiler-heated. (Eventually the FBI shut this little operation down.) Get even weirder seven miles down the road in Baker with an alien sighting at Alien Jerky , a kitschy, alien-themed sundries shop selling flavored jerky, olives, nuts and candy. If you’re hungry for something more substatial, don’t miss the Mad Greek , a surprisingly delicious Greek fast food joint. In fact you can’t miss it, due to the lifesize plaster statues and Parthenon patio. Get a gyro plate to fuel the rest of your journey to Sin City. If you’re itching for the open road once your’re in Vegas, take a loop through Red Rock Canyon , including a 13-mile scenic loop that follows the canyon walls.

Discover the best things to do in Las Vegas .

5. Mammoth Lakes

Miles from L.A.: ~310 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min.

Take the scenic Route 395 and you’ll have a view of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountain range for most of this gorgeous drive. When you hit Big Pine, stop for a bite at Copper Top BBQ , a bright red smoke shack that serves piping-hot ribs and tri-tips. You may end up befriending some hungry alpine clibers headed to or from Mount Whitney (the highest point in the contiguous U.S. at 14,505 feet!). Take a small detour east to the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest , home to the oldest trees in the world; some of these beauties have been around for more than 4,000 years. Farther north, stop in Bishop for some fresh-baked loaves or pastries at Erick Schat’s Bakery . Drive up the road to Mahogany Smoked Meats and choose some road snacks from a huge selection of gourmet beef, turkey, elk, buffalo, boar and fish jerkies. Though there’s no formal address, if you’re determined (or willing to ask a local), you can find a group of easily-accessible hot springs right off the 395, just south of Mammoth Yosemite Airport.

6. San Francisco

Miles from L.A.: ~390 Suggested round trip time: 3–4 days min. There’s more than one way to get up to the Bay; you can choose the scenic route up the Pacific Coast Highway, or the down-and-dirty quick shot up the 5. (Yes, we mean dirty; miles of cattle farms give off a terrible stench, and miles of citrus farms—while more pleasing to the nose—will leave your car covered in bug guts.) For a leisurely road trip, we suggest Highway 1. Stop at the Madonna Inn for a giant slice of cake or a peek into one of the themed guest rooms. If you have more time, Hearst Castle is a must-see; a sprawling estate with 56 bedrooms, multiple pools, 127 acres of gardens and even grazing zebras. As you continue north, look out for the signs (and smells) of Gilroy, the garlic capital of the world. Take a detour just outside of San Jose for more quirky home architecture at the Winchester Mystery House , supposedly haunted by ghosts of those killed by Winchester rifles, which led Sarah Winchester to build new additions onto the house continuously until her death to confuse the wandering spirits.

Discover the best things to do in San Francisco .

7. Napa and Sonoma

Miles from L.A.: ~415 Suggested round trip time: 5 days min. There’s so much to explore in Wine Country. Enjoy a picturesque drive up the coast, then swing inland for miles and miles of bucolic, verdant, rolling hills dotted with wineries and farms. Once you get close, you’ll have to pick a direction: west for Sonoma , east for Napa . You can’t go wrong, but it isn’t easy to drive back and forth between the two, so if you don’t have time for both, choose between spread out, rustic Sonoma or more condensed and touristy Napa. Spring for a hot air balloon ride if you can, or spot them from the road in the early mornings. The main event here, of course, is wineries—just be sure to drive safely, or turn the wheel over to Lyft for the day.

Discover the best things to do in Napa .

8. Lake Tahoe

Miles from L.A.: ~465 Suggested round trip time: 4–5 days min. The scenic Route 395 is one of the loveliest roads in California. Wind your way along the Eastern Sierras, stopping in the small towns of Lone Pine, Big Pine and Bishop for quaint strolls and delicious detours (we’ll repeat here our recommendations for Copper Top BBQ in Big Pine and the famous Schat’s Bakery in Bishop). The area is perfect for exploration by car; take any westward road to head up into the mountains, where you’ll find pine forests, crystal clear snowmelt lakes and tiny towns. Ask the locals where to find one of many natural hot springs to soak tight muscles from a long day’s drive, or pull off at the Happys, Sads or Owens River Gorge, all world-class bouldering and climbing sites, for some rock scrambling. For otherworldly waterscapes, check out Mono Lake’s “tufas,” spindly towers of limestone buildup reflecting across the saline waters. If you have time, a stop in Yosemite National Park is a must, as is a hike or stroll (or ski day) in Mammoth. Another worthwhile (if far) detour is Bodie, one of the most legitimate and well-preserved ghost towns in America.

Discover the best things to do in Tahoe

9. Flagstaff and Sedona

Miles from L.A.: ~470 Suggested round trip time: 5 days min. The change of scenery you’ll see on this drive is worth the trip alone: from vast stretches of desert into shrub-covered hills, followed by dense forest and—depending on the time of year—even snow. There are plenty of detours along the way: the Hoover Dam (an inspired Art Deco wonder), the Grand Canyon, Death Valley, Las Vegas—it’s definitely a choose-your-own-adventure type of trip, depending on how much time you have. But whether your destination is Flagstaff or Sedona , take the 30-minute drive between the two. Each has distinct offerings; from a hip, small-town feel in Flagstaff with craft beer, live music and friendly folks to stunning views and an overwhelming number of health and wellness spas in sleepy Sedona (treat yo’ self) .

Discover the best things to do in Flagstaff and the best things to do in Sedona .

10. Big Sur

Miles from L.A.: ~350 Suggested round trip time: 3 days min. Arguably one of the most iconic stretches of coastline in the world, the Big Sur area is a road tripper’s paradise. It’s where redwood-covered mountainsides plunge into the surging ocean, with a narrow road carved into the cliffside, offering incredible views and a bit of vertigo. Before you get too far north, stop off at Morro Bay or Pismo Beach (both right near San Luis Obispo) for a dip or a sunbathe and later, look for the sign alerting you of the elephant seals, who crowd along the shoreline. Then steel yourself for a few hours of curves—every one is worth it for the next view around the corner. One of the best ways to see Big Sur is simply by driving along Highway 1, parking your car wherever it looks cool (read: basically everywhere), and following a probably unmarked trail—though be careful of poison oak—down in the direction of the ocean. For more mappable destinations, try the touristy-but-still-totally-worth-it McWay Falls and Pfeiffer Beach for even more stunning vistas (we also used to suggest you check out the Esalen Institute , as their hot spring baths used to be open to the public from 1–3am with a reservation, but that’s been temporarily, if not permanently, suspended). Dying to get off the beaten path? Head up Nacimiento Road to the remote valley setting of Mission San Antonio de Padua —one spot in Big Sur that you just might have to yourself.

Just a heads up: Increasingly common landslides have temporarily shut down sections of Highway 1 in recent years, so make sure to check up on the latest road closures before you depart. You may only be able to reach certain sections of Big Sur from the Bay Area-end of the highway in the event of a closure.

11. Salton Sea

Miles from L.A.: ~165 Suggested round trip time: 2 days

Driving south down a desolate stretch of the 111, you’d never guess that the lake was a popular vacation spot in the 1950s, with resorts dotting its eastern shore. But increasing salinity and pollution due to agricutlural runoff have turned what was once a luxury retreat into a destination appealing only to those with an affinity for the forgotten and decaying. Explore abandoned structures along the shoreline as sun-bleached fish bones crunch underfoot. When you get hungry, the Ski Inn is your best option—and one of the only remaining establishments in the area. Make sure to visit late local Leonard Knight’s gigantic folk art sculpture, Salvation Mountain , a rainbow-hued hill emblazoned with the words “God is Love.”

12. Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks

Miles from L.A.: ~500 Suggested round trip time: 6–7 days min. The route to southwest Utah will take you directly through Vegas, so you can hit up all the roadside attractions listed above before venturing into more scenic landscape on the second half of your journey. There’s no shortage of incredible parks and monuments to check out in this area, so if you’re looking to see some natural wonders, this is the trip for you. A few must-visits are Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park (the backdrop to most Westerns since the 1930s), Glen Canyon National Recreation Area for some swimming amidst the desert landscape (if the season is right) and Vermilion Cliffs National Monument , home of incredible “wave” rock formations and painted desert vistas. You’ll be greeted in Zion by soaring monoliths and sunset-colored cliffs; beyond in Bryce Canyon , the pinks turn to reds in a surreal, hoodoo-covered landscape (hoodoo means rock spire, and is way more fun to say).

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How to have the best Sunday in L.A., according to Tinx

Photo of brunette woman on a background of colorful illustrations like a book, dog, pizza, TV, shopping bag, and more

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From an early age, Christina Najjar, better known by her moniker Tinx , recalls the grip that “Sunday scaries” had on her household. “I remember my dad being kind of stressed out, and it was the day that everybody went to bed early because we were getting ready for the week,” she says.

Now that she’s an adult, she’s made it her mission to reclaim Sundays.

In Sunday Funday, L.A. people give us a play-by-play of their ideal Sunday around town. Find ideas and inspiration on where to go, what to eat and how to enjoy life on the weekends.

“It is literally half of your weekend, so you need to flip it,” says Tinx, a content creator and author of the New York Times bestselling book “ The Shift: Change Your Perspective, Not Yourself. ” I feel like people like Fridays way better than Sundays, but I just hate the idea that people waste their Sundays being afraid versus enjoying their day off.”

Since making her first TikTok about four years ago, Tinx has amassed roughly 1.5 million followers who tune in for her satirical takes on rich moms, dating advice, daily vlogs and recommendations on everything from sexy perfumes to local restaurants . Her fans often make videos of themselves trying her favorite dishes, such as the tuna salad at the Carla Cafe .

When she isn’t hosting her podcast, “ It’s Me Tinx, ” on SiriusXM, writing a column for Grazia or DJing at a party (a new hobby), she says her ideal Sunday involves having a beach day with friends, drinking natural wine and ending her night with spicy noodles and a good TV series.

This interview has been lightly edited and condensed for length and clarity.

8 a.m.: Get an iced Americano with whole milk from Verve

Usually, I get up pretty early, sadly, even though I’m sometimes hungover. I’ll get up at 8 a.m., even though I want to sleep in. Then I’ll chug my water — it’s the first thing. I read about that in Cameron Diaz’s “ The Body Book, ” and I’ve always thought about it ever since. Then I usually go to Verve for coffee. It’s amazing. Shout-out to Mallory, a barista there; she’s actually the best person. I like to have local places to visit, especially if you live in a big city. It’s nice to have people that you see regularly. Right now, I’m doing an iced Americano with a little regular whole milk. Shout-out to whole milk. We were so rude to it for so long and now everybody’s coming crawling back because we realized that almond milk is made of literal plastic or something. (Editor’s note: That claim is unfounded, although some research says almond milk isn’t great for the environment. ) Then I’ll start texting my friends, trying to make a plan for the day.

Travel & Experiences

The 70 best hikes in L.A.

Whether you’re looking for ocean views or desert landscapes or soaring mountain peaks, Los Angeles offers miles upon miles of strikingly different trails.

May 30, 2024

8:35 a.m.: Quick and easy hike at Runyon Canyon

I try to do a hike on the weekend. Even though it’s so cliche, Runyon is convenient, so I will go there, listen to music in my corded headphones and maybe I’ll plan for my podcast that week. It is such a nice time to unwind. I can do Runyon in 15 minutes now. I do the easy way, which is embarrassing, but I don’t care because I like paved roads. I’m an indoor cat, you know. I just hike because I like to get the good vibes. When I see people scaling the rocks, I’m like, “You don’t have to try that hard.”

10 a.m.: Recharge with a smoothie and breakfast burrito from Dialog

After that, I’m hungry. I’m not a person who can skip breakfast. I don’t do intermittent fasting. One thing about Dialog [Cafe ] is — I don’t want to say it was my fault — it’s very, very popular. Honestly, order your smoothie, I swear to God, at the top of the mountain, when you are coming down Runyon. It’s going to take them 35 to 45 minutes on a Sunday to get your food ready. I’ll either get the Dialog Detox or I’ll do the breakfast burrito with brisket. You’re going to need to ask for extra spicy ketchup. It’s so bomb.

Huntington Beach, CA - June 07: Beach goers enjoy nice weather at Bolsa Chica State Beach in Huntington Beach Friday, June 7, 2024. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times)

The 50 best beaches in Southern California

We visited more than 200 miles of coastline, picking through hundreds of beaches to name the 50 best from San Diego to Santa Barbara. We prioritized ease of use and special amenities — like volleyball courts, camping, surf conditions and views.

July 15, 2024

10:30 a.m.: Get ready for a beach day

I will usually go back to my house and pack a bag for the beach. Then I will go pick up my friends on the way to Malibu. It sometimes takes over an hour to get there so you’re going to need to have your playlist and talking points ready. We will usually go to the Malibu Country Mart , Soho Beach House or just to the beach — anywhere along PCH [Pacific Coast Highway] in the Malibu Strip. I feel like there’s two types of people: people who like to submerge themselves in the water, and then there are people who do not. I’m a water creature, so I like to get into the water. I also feel like it’s the most natural cold plunge there is.

1 p.m. Lunch at Taverna Tony

My favorite place to go to lunch is Taverna Tony at the Malibu Country Mart . The best part about it is the dip. Nobody really knows what it’s made out of. There’s bread in it, and I think there’s fish, but I don’t care to know. It’s delicious, it’s free and they bring out hot bread. And if you’re doing low carb, you can ask for crudité, and they bring that to you for free as well. The food is just so comforting and good.

3 p.m.: Cure my Saturday night hangover with snacks

At this point, you’re like, “Well, I’m already on the Westside. What if I just went to Venice with my friends and we walked around Abbott Kinney and did a little bit more window shopping, then stopped in Gjelina for a little glass of natural wine?” Something effervescent. Something that is so fermented it tastes like kombucha but it’s alcoholic. The (DD) designated driver is driving us there. So at Gjelina, you’re like, “Let’s get the sweet potatoes as a snack,” because it’s a bottomless pit day on Sunday. You’re hungover, so you’re really hungry as well.

Get the most bang from these hand-pulled biang biang noodle spots

Originating from Xi’an, China, they’re called biang biang noodles because of the sound of the dough being slapped against the counter when the chef makes them. Here are several of the best biang biang noodle makers in L.A.

Feb. 6, 2024

7 p.m.: Order eye-watering spicy noodles from Night + Market

Sunday night can not end without some sort of spicy noodle, so to get us back home to the Beverly Hills, West Hollywood area, you tell your friends, “We should go to Night + Market .” If you have even 3% left of your hangover, Night + Market will cure it with their food. And it’s real spicy, like eyes watering. Have a cold beer with it. My favorite thing is the pad see ew. I like pad thai too. Also, the nam khao tod , which is a crispy rice salad, and the larb gai, which is minced chicken, but it’s actually so spicy, even for me, and I love spicy food. Whether we eat our food there or at home really depends on if [HBO] Max is doing their job and giving us something to watch on Sundays.

9 p.m.: “Never stop chilling” with my friends

We have this thing in our friend group called “Never stop chilling,” which means if you can make it go longer, you should. Half the time, I’ll make my friends sleep over because I’m like, “Why do I have this house?” The whole point of living in L.A. is so you can have more space than New York. I will definitely do some sort of mask on Sunday night because, you know, that takes away all of the bad things you’ve done. Maybe I’ll hand out sheet masks. The perks of being friends with an influencer is that my spare room looks like a Sephora. We’ll also need a sweet treat. I’m obsessed with Sidecar Doughnuts , but that’s not really a nighttime thing so it’ll probably be Go Greek . We’ll probably open another bottle of wine. We love natural wine like Jumbo Time Wines , which is an independent, L.A.-based wine maker.

11 p.m.: Do “leg on wall falls” before bed

I’ll maybe go to bed around 11 p.m. Sundae School has a sleepy gummy that I take and listen to a meditation on the Calm app. I like the Lychee Dragon flavor. I’ll scroll on my phone for at least 30 minutes, and I have to do 20 minutes of what me and my followers call “ leg on wall fall. ” Basically, what that means is you lie on your bed and put your legs up against the headboard. I have to do it everyday, and it just drains your legs. A lot of different cultures do this for different reasons and it really helps with stress. It’s the best.

How to have the best Sunday in L.A., according to Tony Gonzalez

Aug. 30, 2024

Photo of actress Jessica Alba surrounded by illustrations like a turkey, books, fruit, butterfly, hiking boots and more

How to have the best Sunday in L.A., according to Jessica Alba

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Photo of comedian and actress Awkwafina surrounded by illustrations of a karaoke machine, smoothie, wine, pizza and more

How to have the best Sunday in L.A., according to Awkwafina

Aug. 15, 2024

We’ll help you find the best places to hike, bike and run, as well as the perfect silent spots for meditation and yoga.

You may occasionally receive promotional content from the Los Angeles Times.

Kailyn Brown is a lifestyle reporter for the Los Angeles Times. Previously, she worked as a staff writer for Los Angeles Magazine and the Las Vegas Review-Journal. When she’s not penning an article, she’s DJing at events and parties around the city.

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Continuing Coverage

Full list of Team USA athletes who have qualified for the 2024 Olympics

Hundreds of american athletes will wear the red, white and blue in paris, by max molski • published july 3, 2024 • updated on july 22, 2024 at 7:17 am.

Team USA is sending a stacked team overseas for the 2024 Olympics in Paris .

Nearly 600 of the top American athletes will have a chance to compete for gold, silver and bronze medals while wearing red, white and blue. Olympic veterans like Simone Biles , Katie Ledecky , Noah Lyles and LeBron James are expected to lead the charge in Paris , but up-and-comers across more than 30 sports will have a chance to shine on the Olympic stage .

📺 Los Angeles news 24/7: Watch NBC4 free wherever you are

With the Opening Ceremony commencing this week, here is a full list of every U.S. athlete who has made the Team USA roster for the Paris Games.

Get top local stories in Southern California delivered to you every morning . Sign up for NBC LA's News Headlines newsletter.

Brady Ellison
Casey Kaufhold
Catalina GNoriega
Jennifer Mucino-Fernandez

Artistic swimming

Anita Alvarez (team)
Jaime Czarkowski (duet/team)
Megumi Field (duet/team)
Keana Hunter (team)
Audrey Kwon (team)
Jacklyn Luu (team)
Daniella Ramirez (team)
Ruby Remati (team)
Vincent Chiu (men's doubles, mixed doubles)
Jennie Gai (mixed doubles)
Howard Shu (men's singles)
Annie Xu (women's doubles)
Kerry Xu (women's doubles)
Joshua Yuan (men's doubles)
Beiwen Zhang (women's singles)

Men's basketball

Bam Adebayo
Devin Booker
Steph Curry
Anthony Davis
Kevin Durant
Anthony Edwards
Joel Embiid
Tyrese Haliburton
Jrue Holiday
LeBron James
Jayson Tatum
Derrick White

Women's basketball

Napheesa Collier
Kahleah Copper
Chelsea Gray
Brittney Griner
Sabrina Ionescu
Jewell Loyd
Kelsey Plum
Breanna Stewart
Diana Taurasi
Alyssa Thomas
A’ja Wilson
Jackie Young

Men's 3x3 basketball

Canyon Barry
Jimmer Fredette
Reem Maddox
Dylan Travis

Women's 3x3 basketball

Cierra Burdick
Dearica Hamby
Rhyne Howard
Hailey Van Lith

Team USA announces loaded men's basketball roster for Paris Olympics

USA Basketball announces star-studded women's roster for Paris Olympics

Dearica Hamby replaces injured Sparks teammate Cameron Brink on US Olympic 3×3 team

Beach volleyball.

Andy Benesh/Miles Partain
Chase Budinger/Miles Evans
Taryn Kloth/Kristen Nuss
Kelly Cheng/Sara Hughes
Joshua Edwards (super heavyweight)
Jahmal Harvey (featherweight)
Roscoe Hill (flyweight)
Omari Jones (welterweight)
Jajaira Gonzalez (lightweight)
Jennifer Lozano (flyweight)
Morelle McCane (welterweight)
Alyssa Mendoza (featherweight)
Jeffrey Louis (Jeffro)
Victor Montalvo (Victor)
Sunny Choi (Sunny)
Logan Edra (Logistx)
Jonas Ecker (men's K-2 sprint)
Casey Eichfeld (men's canoe slalom)
Aaron Small (men's K-2 sprint)
Nevin Harrison (canoe sprint)
Evy Leibfarth (canoe slalom, kayak slalom, kayak cross)

Men's road cycling

Brandon McNulty (time trial, road race)
Magnus Sheffield (time trial, road race)
Matteo Jorgenson (road race)

Women's road cycling

Chloe Dygert (time trial, road race)
Taylor Knibb (time trial)
Kristen Faulkner (road race)

Men's track cycling

Grant Koontz (omnium)

Women's track cycling

Olivia Cummins (team pursuit)
Chloe Dygert (team pursuit)
Kristen Faulkner (team pursuit)
Jennifer Valente (Madison, omnium, team pursuit)
Lily Williams (Madison, team pursuit)

Men's BMX racing

Kamren Larsen
Cameron Wood

Women's BMX racing

Felicia Stancil
Daleny Vaughn
Alise Willoughby

Men's BMX freestyle

Marcus Christopher
Justin Dowell

Women's BMX freestyle

Hannah Roberts
Perris Benegas

Men's mountain biking

Christopher Blevins

Women's mountain biking

Haley Batten
Savilia Blunk
Andrew Capobianco (3m springboard)
Tyler Downs (synchronized 3m springboard)
Greg Duncan (synchronized 3m springboard)
Carson Tyler (3m springboard, 10m platform)
Sarah Bacon (3m springboard, synchronized 3m springboard)
Kassidy Cook (synchronized 3m springboard)
Alison Gibson (3m springboard)
Jessica Parratto (synchronized 10m platform)
Delaney Schnell (10m platform, synchronized 10m platform)
Daryn Wright (10m platform)
Adrienne Lyle (riding Helix)
Marcus Orlob (riding Jane)
Steffen Peters (riding Suppenkasper)
Will Coleman (riding Off the Record)
Boyd Martin (riding Fedarman B)
Caroline Pamukcu (riding HSH Blake)
Kent Farrington (riding Greya)
Laura Kraut (riding Baloutinue)
McLain Ward (riding Ilex)
Karl Cook (riding Caracole de la Roque; alternate)
Alexander Massialas
Gerek Meinhardt
Miles Chamley-Watson (replacement for team event)

Men's sabre

Eli Dershwitz
Colin Heathcock
Mitchell Saron
Filip Dolegiewicz (replacement for team event)

Women's epee

Anne Cebula
Margherita Guzzi Vincenti
Hadley Husisian
Kat Holmes (replacement for team event)

Women's foil

Jackie Dubrovich
Lauren Scruggs
Maia Weintraub (replacement for team event)

Women's sabre

Tatiana Nazlymov
Magda Skarbonkiewicz
Elizabeth Tartakovsky
Maia Chamberlain (replacement for team event)

Field hockey

Kelsey Bing
Leah Crouse
Brooke DeBerdine
Emma DeBerdine
Phia Gladieux
Amanda Golini
Ally Hammel
Ashley Hoffman
Karlie Kisha
Kelee Lepage
Ashley Sessa
Meredith Sholder
Megan Valzonis
Beth Yeager
Maddie Zimmer
Wyndham Clark
Collin Morikawa
Xander Schauffele
Scottie Scheffler
Nelly Korda
Brody Malone
Stephen Nedoroscik
Frederick Richard
Simone Biles
Jordan Chiles
Hezly Rivera
John Jayne (90 kg)
Jack Yonezuka (73 kg)
Angelica Delgado (52kg)
Maria Laborde (48 kg)

Modern pentathlon

Rhythmic gymnastics.

Women's individual

Evita Griskenas

Men's single sculls

Jacob Plihal
William Bender

Men's double sculls

Ben Davison
Sorin Koszyk
Justin Best
Liam Corrigan
Michael Grady

Men's eight

Chris Carlson
Peter Chatain
Henry Hollingsworth
Rielly Milne (coxswain)
Pieter Quinton
Nick Rusher
Christian Tabash

Women's single sculls

Kara Kohler

Women's pair

Azja Czajkowski
Jessica Thoennes

Women's double sculls

Sophia Vitas
Kristi Wagner

Women's lightweight double sculls

Molly Reckford
Michelle Sechser

Women's quadruple sculls

Emily Delleman
Grace Joyce
Lauren O'Connor

Women's four

Emily Kallfelz
Kaitlin Knifton
Mary Mazzio-Manson
Kelsey Reelick

Women's eight

Molly Bruggeman
Charlotte Buck
Nina Castagna (coxswain)
Olivia Coffey
Claire Collins
Margaret Hedeman
Meghan Musnicki
Regina Salmons
Madeleine Wanamaker
Perry Baker
Orrin Bizer
Aaron Cummings
Malacchi Esdale
Naima Fuala'au
Madison Hughes
Lucas Lacamp
Matai Leuta
Stephen Tomasin
Marcus Tupuola
Kevon Williams
Kayla Canett
Lauren Doyle
Alev Kelter
Kristi Kirshe
Ilona Maher
Alena Olsen
Ariana Ramsey
Steph Rovetti
Spiff Sedrick
Sammy Sullivan
Naya Tapper

Men's skiff

Ian Barrows
Hans Henken

Men's windsurfing

Markus Edegran

Women's dinghy

Erika Reineke

Women's skiff

Stephanie Roble
Maggie Shea

Women's windsurfing

Dominique Stater

Women's kite

Daniela Moroz
Lara Dallman-Weiss

Mixed multihall

David Liebenberg
Sarah Newberry Moore
Vincent Hancock (skeet)
Will Hinton (trap)
Rylan Kissell (air rifle, smallbore rifle)
Henry Leverett (rapid fire pistol)
Derrick Mein (trap)
Conner Prince (skeet)
Ivan Roe (air rifle, smallbore rifle)
Keith Sanderson (rapid fire pistol)
Katelyn Abeln (air pistol, sport pistol)
Ada Khorkin (sport pistol)
Lexi Lagan (air pistol)
Sagen Maddalena (air rifle, smallbore rifle)
Ryann Phillips (trap)
Austen Smith (skeet)
Rachel Tozier (trap)
Mary Tucker (air rifle, smallbore rifle)
Dania Vizzi (skeet)

Skateboarding

Men's street

Jagger Eaton
Nyjah Huston
Chris Joslin
Gavin Bottger

Women's street

Mariah Duran

Women's park

Ruby Lilley
Minna Stess
Bryce Wettstein
Paxten Aaronson
Taylor Booth
Gianluca Busio
Benjamin Cremaschi
Maximilian Dietz
Nathan Harriel
Jack McGlynn
Duncan McGuire
Djordje Mihailovic
Kevin Paredes
Miles Robinson
Patrick Schulte
Gaga Slonina
Tanner Tessmann
John Tolkin
Caleb Wiley
Griffin Yow
Walker Zimmerman
Korbin Albert
Tierna Davidson
Crystal Dunn
Naomi Girma
Lindsey Horan
Casey Krueger
Rose Lavelle
Casey Murphy
Alyssa Naeher
Jenna Nighswonger
Trinity Rodman
Jaedyn Shaw
Sophia Smith
Emily Sonnett
Mallory Swanson
Lynn Williams

Sport climbing

Men's speed

Zach Hammer

Men's bouldering and lead combined

Colin Duffy
Jesse Grupper

Women's speed

Piper Kelly

Women's bouldering and lead combined

Natalia Grossman
Brooke Raboutou
Griffin Colapinto
John John Florence
Caroline Marks
Carissa Moore
Caity Simmers
Jack Alexy (4x100m freestyle relay)
Hunter Armstrong (100m backstroke, 4x100m freestyle relay)
Shaine Casas (200m IM)
Brooks Curry (4x200m freestyle relay)
Caeleb Dressel (50m freestyle, 100m butterfly, 4x100m freestyle relay)
Matt Fallon (200m breaststroke)
Nic Fink (100m breaststroke)
Bobby Finke (800m freestyle, 1500m freestyle)
Carson Foster (200m IM, 400m IM)
Chris Guiliano (50m freestyle, 100m freestyle, 200m freestyle, 4x100m freestyle relay, 4x200m freestyle relay)
Thomas Heilman (100m butterfly, 200m butterfly)
Ryan Held (4x100m freestyle relay)
Luke Hobson (200m freestyle, 4x200m freestyle relay)
David Johnston (1500m freestyle)
Keaton Jones (200m backstroke)
Chase Kalisz (400m IM)
Drew Kibler (4x200m freestyle relay)
Matt King (4x100m freestyle relay)
Josh Matheny (200m breaststroke)
Ryan Murphy (100m backstroke, 200m backstroke)
Blake Pieroni (4x200m freestyle relay)
Luca Urlando (200m butterfly)
Aaron Shackell (400m freestyle)
Kieran Smith (400m freestyle, 4x200m freestyle relay)
Charlie Swanson (100m breaststroke)
Luke Whitlock (800m freestyle)
Phoebe Bacon (200m backstroke)
Katharine Berkoff (100m backstroke)
Erika Connolly (4x100m freestyle relay)
Kate Douglass (100m freestyle, 200m breaststroke, 200m IM, 4x100m freestyle relay)
Erin Gemmell (4x100m freestyle relay)
Katie Grimes (1500m freestyle, 400m IM)
Torri Huske (100m butterfly, 4x100m freestyle relay)
Lilly King (100m breaststroke, 200m breaststroke)
Katie Ledecky (200m freestyle [expected to opt out], 400m freestyle, 800m freestyle,1500m freestyle, 4x200m freestyle relay)
Paige Madden (400m freestyle, 800m freestyle, 4x100m freestyle relay)
Simone Manuel (50m freestyle, 4x100m freestyle relay)
Anna Peplowski (4x200m freestyle relay)
Alex Shackell (200m butterfly, 4x200m freestyle relay)
Regan Smith (100m backstroke, 200m backstroke, 200m butterfly)
Alex Walsh (200m IM)
Gretchen Walsh (50m freestyle, 100m butterfly, 4x100m freestyle relay)
Emma Weber (100m breaststroke)
Claire Weinstein (4x200m freestyle relay)
Abbey Weitzeil (4x100m freestyle relay)
Emma Weyant (400m IM)

Marathon swimming

Mariah Denigan (women's 10km)
Katie Grimes (women's 10km)
Ivan Puskovitch (men's 10km)

Here's Team USA's swimming roster for the 2024 Olympics

Gretchen Walsh sets a world record and Katie Ledecky secures her 4th trip to Olympics at U.S. trials

Swimming at the 2024 Olympics: Rules, strokes, events and more

Table tennis.

Rachel Sung
Jonathan Healy (80+ kg)
CJ Nickolas (80 kg)
Faith Dillon (57 kg)
Kristina Teachout (67 kg)
Chris Eubanks (singles)
Taylor Fritz (singles, doubles)
Marcos Giron (singles)
Austin Krajicek (doubles)
Tommy Paul (singles, doubles)
Rajeev Ram (doubles)
Danielle Collins (singles)
Coco Gauff (singles, doubles)
Desirae Krawczyk (doubles)
Emma Navarro (singles, doubles)
Jessica Pegula (singles, doubles)

Track and field

Men's track events

CJ Allen (400m hurdles)
Chris Bailey (400m)
Trevor Bassitt (400m hurdles)
Rai Benjamin (400m hurdles)
Kenny Bednarek (100m, 200m)
Graham Blanks (5,000m)
Christian Coleman (relay pool)
James Corrigan (steeplechase)
Freddie Crittenden (110m hurdles)
Bryce Deadmon (relay pool)
Grant Fisher (5,000m, 10,000m)
Quincy Hall (400m)
Cole Hocker (1,500m)
Grant Holloway (110m hurdles)
Bryce Hoppel (800m)
Fred Kerley (100m)
Hobbs Kessler (800m, 1,500m)
Woody Kincaid (10,000m)
Kyree King (relay pool)
Erriyon Knighton (200m)
Courtney Lindsey (relay pool)
Noah Lyles (100m, 200m)
Brandon Miller (800m)
Michael Norman (400m)
Vernon Norwood (relay pool)
Yared Nuguse (1,500m)
Abdihamid Nur (5,000m)
Daniel Roberts (110m hurdles)
Kenneth Rooks (steeplechase)
Matthew Wilkinson (steeplechase)
Quincy Wilson (relay pool)
Nico Young (10,000m)

Women's track events

Nia Akins (800m)
Brittany Brown (200m)
Kaylyn Brown (relay pool)
Aaliyah Butler (400m)
Anna Cockrell (400m hurdles)
Valerie Constien (steeplechase)
Elise Cranny (5,000m)
Tamari Davis (relay pool)
Kendall Ellis (400m)
Quanera Hayes (relay pool)
Nikki Hiltz (1,500m)
Aleia Hobbs (relay pool)
Alexis Holmes (400m)
Marisa Howard (steeplechase)
Melissa Jefferson (100m)
Alaysha Johnson (100m hurdles)
Jasmine Jones (400m hurdles)
Weini Kelati (10,000m)
Shamier Little (relay pool)
McKenzie Long (200m)
Emily Mackay (1,500m)
Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone (400m hurdles)
Whittni Morgan (5,000m)
Sha'Carri Richardson (100m)
Masai Russell (100m hurdles)
Elle St. Pierre (1500m 5,000m)
Karissa Schweizer (5,000m, 10,000m)
Grace Stark (100m hurdles)
TeeTee Terry (100m)
Gabby Thomas (200m)
Parker Valby (10,000m)
Courtney Wayment (steeplechase)
Isabella Whittaker (relay pool)
Juliette Whittaker (800m)
Allie Wilson (800m)

Men's field events

Heath Baldwin (decathlon)
Joseph Brown (discus)
Malcolm Clemons (long jump)
Ryan Crouser (shot put)
Jeremiah Davis (long jump)
Andrew Evans (discus)
Daniel Haugh (hammer)
JuVaughn Harrison (high jump)
Sam Kendricks (pole vault)
Joe Kovacs (shot put)
Jarrion Lawson (long jump)
Salif Mane (triple jump)
Sam Mattis (discus)
Shelby McEwen (high jump)
Chris Nilsen (pole vault)
Payton Otterdahl (shot put)
Russell Robinson (triple jump)
Donald Scott (triple jump)
Curtis Thompson (javelin)
Vernon Turner (high jump)
Harrison Williams (decathlon)
Rudy Winkler (hammer)
Jacob Wooten (pole vault)
Zach Ziemek (decathlon)

Women's field events

Valarie Allman (discus)
Taliyah Brooks (heptathlo)
Vashti Cunningham (high jump)
Tara Davis-Woodhall (long jump)
Annette Echikunwoke (hammer)
Veronica Fraley (discus)
Tori Franklin (triple jump)
Rachel Glenn (high jump)
Anna Hall (heptathlon)
Chari Hawkins (heptathlon)
Chase Jackson (shot put)
Brynn King (pole vault)
Maggie Malone-Hardin (javelin)
Katie Moon (pole vault)
Jasmine Moore (long jump, triple jump)
Monae' Nichols (long jump)
Keturah Orji (triple jump)
DeAnna Price (hammer)
Erin Reese (hammer)
Jaida Ross (shot put)
Raven Saunders (shot put)
Jayden Ulrich (discus)
Bridget Williams (pole vault)

Men's marathon

Leonard Korir
Conner Mantz
Clayton Young

Women's marathon

Dakotah Lindwurm
Fiona O'Keeffe
Emily Sisson

Here's Team USA's track and field roster for the 2024 Olympics

Track and field Olympic records: Most medals, times to beat heading into Paris 2024

Meet US track and field gold medalist Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone

Aliaksei Shostak
Jessica Stevens
Morgan Pearson
Kirsten Kasper
Taylor Knibb
Taylor Spivey
Matt Anderson
Taylor Averill
Micah Christenson
T.J. DeFalco
Thomas Jaeschke
Jeff Jendryk
Garrett Muagututia
Aaron Russell
David Smith
Lauren Carlini
Annie Drews
Jordan Larson
Chiaka Ogbogu
Kathryn Plummer
Jordyn Poulter
Dana Rettke
Kelsey Robinson Cook
Avery Skinner
Jordan Thompson
Haleigh Washington
Justine Wong-Orantes
Luca Cupido
Hannes Daube
Ben Hallock
Drew Holland
Johnny Hooper
Marko Vavic
Adrian Weinberg
Dylan Woodhead
Emily Ausmus
Rachel Fattal
Jenna Flynn
Kaleigh Gilchrist
Ashleigh Johnson
Amanda Longan
Maddie Musselman
Ryann Neushul
Tara Prentice
Jordan Raney
Jewel Roemer
Jovana Sekulic
Maggie Steffens

Weightlifting

Wes Kitts (102 kg)
Hampton Morris (61kg)
Jourdan Delacruz (49 kg)
Olivia Reeves (71 kg)
Mary Theisen-Lappen (81+ kg)

Men's freestyle

Aaron Brooks (86 kg)
Kyle Dake (74 kg)
Spencer Lee (57 kg)
Marris Parris (125 kg)
Zain Retherford (65 kg)
Kyle Snyder (97 kg)

Women's freestyle

Kennedy Blades (76 kg)
Amit Elor (68 kg)
Sarah Hildebrandt (50 kg)
Helen Maroulis (57 kg)
Kayla Miracle (62 kg)
Dominique Parrish (53 kg)

Greco-Roman

Kamal Bey (77 kg)
Adam Coon (130 kg)
Payton Jacobson (87 kg)
Joe Rau (97 kg)

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The Ultimate Los Angeles Summer Bucket List

California Bucket List Series

The Hollywood Sign

Hollywood Walk of Fame

In-N-Out Burger

Universal Studios

Griffith Observatory

Santa Monica Pier

Grauman’s Chinese Theatre

Paramount Pictures

Griffith Park

Rodeo Drive

Venice Beach

The Sunset Strip

Venice Canals

A Cupcake ATM

Warner Brothers Studio Tour

The Last Bookstore

Angels Flight Railway

Los Angeles FAQs

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What’s the best L.A. neighborhood to stay in?

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Day 1 / Stop 1 – Hollywood Walk of Fame

Day 1 / Stop 2 – TCL Chinese Theatre

Day 1 / Stop 3 – Griffith Park

Day 1 / Stop 4 – Griffith Observatory

Day 1 / Stop 5 – The Getty Museum

Day 1 / Stop 6 – Sunset Boulevard

Day 2 / Stop 1 – Warner Brothers Studio Tour Hollywood

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

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

Day 2 / Stop 4 – The Venice Beach Boardwalk

Day 2 / Stop 5 – The Santa Monica Pier

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Disneyland Park

Universal Studios Hollywood

Hollywood Bowl

The Queen Mary

Paradise Cove Beach

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The Ultimate Los Angeles Itinerary

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

When Is The Best Time to Visit Los Angeles?

Tour Hollywood

Grab Lunch at Grand Central Market

Go Shopping in Beverley Hills

Go On A Walking Tour Of Los Angeles

Ride The Ferris Wheel At Pacific Park

Visit One Of LA’s Museums

Stroll Along Venice Beach Boardwalk

Explore Griffith Park

Stay at a Luxurious Hotel in Los Angeles

Tours in Los Angeles

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