Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers something for everyone. From the glitz and glamour of Hollywood to the laid-back vibes of Venice Beach, there's no shortage of things to see and do in this sprawling metropolis. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a day in Los Angeles is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
What's the best time to visit Los Angeles?
Los Angeles is blessed with warm and sunny weather year-round, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking to escape the cold. While summer can be hot and crowded, autumn and spring offer more comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists. Even in winter, daytime temperatures rarely drop below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can still enjoy plenty of outdoor activities.
What's good to know about Los Angeles?
Getting around Los Angeles can be a bit of a challenge, as many of the main attractions are spread out across the city. Fortunately, there's a metro system that connects many of the key areas, and ride-share apps like Uber and Lyft are widely used. While LA was built for cars, it's still possible to explore without renting one. And with an average of 284 sunny days per year, you're almost guaranteed to have perfect weather for your visit.
One Day in Los Angeles Itinerary
Santa Monica
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Santa Monica Pier, where you can take a leisurely stroll, listen to street musicians, and even ride the roller coaster at Pacific Park. Afterward, head up to the Third Street Promenade for some shopping or simply relax on the beach and soak up the California sunshine.
Venice Beach
Hop on a rental bike and pedal down the beach path to Venice Beach, a colorful and eclectic neighborhood known for its street performers, artists, and unique shops. The Venice boardwalk is a must-see, with its lively atmosphere and people-watching opportunities. Plan to spend around 2 hours exploring the area.
Downtown
Take the Metro Expo Line from Santa Monica to Downtown LA for lunch at one of the many excellent restaurants in the area. For a trendy rooftop experience with city views, check out The Upstairs Bar at the Ace Hotel or Perch. Other notable eateries include the Mexican-fusion spot B.S. Taqueria and the French restaurant and bakery Bottega Louie.
Hollywood
Continue your LA adventure by taking the Metro Red Line to Hollywood Highland, which drops you off right at the Walk of Fame and the Hollywood Highland complex. Here, you can catch a glimpse of the Hollywood sign, take in views of downtown, and explore the various shops, restaurants, and attractions in the area.
West Hollywood/Beverly Hills
Wrap up your day with a visit to one (or all) of LA's iconic streets. Window-shop and spot luxury cars on Rodeo Drive, browse the vintage shops on Melrose, or relive the 1980s rock scene on the Sunset Strip. Be sure to stop by the trendy cafe Alfred on Melrose for a caffeine boost before dining at one of the many upscale restaurants in West Hollywood.
Where to stay in Los Angeles?
1700 Ocean Avenue, Santa Monica, Los Angeles
Loews Santa Monica Beach Hotel is a contemporary beachfront hotel Situated on the Pacific Ocean, offering dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and beyond. The hotel features an on-site spa and a large oceanfront pool with a great lounge area.
627 N LA PEER DR, West Hollywood
Kimpton La Peer Hotel is a luxurious five-star hotel, perfect for both business travel and leisure. The luxury you get, its brilliant design and beautiful details are the reason why this hotel is a fantastic choice.
888 South Olive Street, Downtown Los Angeles
LEVEL Furnished Living Suites is a modern and stylish hotel located in Downtown Los Angeles, very close to Metro. It features fabulous facilities, well-appointed rooms, a heated outdoor pool, gym and even a basketball court.
1436 2nd Street, Santa Monica, Los Angeles
If you prefer a stay in a hostel, or just want to meet other fellow travelers, HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel is a great choice for your stay in Los Angeles. The hostel provides a bike rental and features facilities such as pool and lounge areas.
Day trips from Los Angeles
While LA has plenty to offer, sometimes it's nice to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day. Here are a few great day trip options:
Solvang
Step into a fairy tale in Solvang, a charming town with strong Danish roots. Admire the windmills, European-style houses, and tributes to Hans Christian Andersen. Be sure to sample some Danish pastries at one of the many bakeries and visit the ostrich and miniature horse farms on the outskirts of town.
Ojai
Slow down and unwind in Ojai, a peaceful town surrounded by olive and citrus groves. Stroll along the main street, browsing the antique shops and enjoying the excellent dining options. If the weather permits, take a dip in the swimming holes at Sespe Creek and immerse yourself in the tranquil natural beauty of the area.
Santa Barbara
The drive to Santa Barbara along the Pacific Coast is an experience in itself, with breathtaking views at every turn. Once you arrive, you'll be greeted by stunning houses, lush gardens, fantastic shopping, and, of course, incredible wine and wineries. Don't forget to spend some time on the sandy beaches that make this place a true paradise.
San Diego
Combine beach time with museum hopping in San Diego. Visit the renowned Balboa Park, home to an impressive 17 museums. If you opt to take the train from LA, you'll avoid traffic and arrive at a convenient location in about two hours. Be sure to check out the fascinating collection of museum ships in the bay as well.
Extra tips for visiting Los Angeles
- If you take a photo with the movie characters on Hollywood Blvd., be prepared to pay them for the privilege.
- Be aware that Skid Row, one of the largest homeless populations in the US, is located near Downtown LA. While downtown is generally safe, it's best to stay between Figueroa St. and Los Angeles St.
- Street vendors and food trucks offer delicious, affordable cuisine, but most are cash only, so come prepared.
- Skip the sightseeing vans in Hollywood. There's so much to see and do in LA that it's not worth spending hours driving past celebrity houses that may not even be accurately marked.
- To blend in with the locals, dress for the seasons. Even though LA doesn't require heavy winter gear, Angelenos will still don cold-weather clothing in autumn and winter, regardless of the temperature.
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