Los Angeles, the City of Angels, is a sprawling metropolis with endless attractions and activities to explore. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun on the famous beaches or experience the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, LA has something for everyone. In this 7-day itinerary, we’ll take you on a journey through the best of LA, from the iconic Hollywood sign to the trendy Venice Beach. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the land of movies and sunshine!
ITINERARY:
Day 1 – Hollywood & Beverly Hills:
- 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM – Start your day with a hike to the Hollywood sign in Griffith Park. The hike takes about 2-3 hours round trip and offers stunning views of the city. Don’t forget to bring water and sunscreen!
- 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM – Visit the famous TCL Chinese Theatre and Walk of Fame on Hollywood Boulevard. Take a stroll down the boulevard and snap some pictures with the stars on the sidewalk.
- 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM – Drive to Beverly Hills and indulge in some high-end shopping on Rodeo Drive. Take a stroll down the famous shopping street and window-shop at the designer boutiques.
- 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM – End the day with a sunset visit to the Getty Center for stunning views of LA. The museum closes at 5:30 PM, so make sure to arrive early to explore the art galleries and gardens.
Day 2 – Downtown LA:
- 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM – Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall. Take a tour of the stunning building and learn about its unique architecture.
- 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM – Head to Grand Central Market for lunch and sample some of the best local food. With over 30 vendors, there’s something for everyone to try.
- 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM – Visit the Broad Museum for contemporary art exhibitions. The museum offers free admission, but make sure to reserve tickets online in advance.
- 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM – End the day with a stroll through the historic Olvera Street and the vibrant Arts District. Browse the shops and galleries on Olvera Street and check out the street art in the Arts District.
Day 3 – Santa Monica & Venice Beach:
- 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM – Start your day with a morning stroll on Santa Monica Pier and beach. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel and enjoy the ocean views.
- 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM – Visit the iconic Muscle Beach and Venice Boardwalk for some people-watching. Check out the street performers and artists along the boardwalk.
- 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM – Have lunch at the trendy Abbot Kinney Boulevard, filled with hip boutiques and cafes. Try the famous avocado toast at The Butcher’s Daughter or grab a coffee at Blue Bottle.
- 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM – Visit the Getty Villa for a taste of ancient Roman art and architecture. The villa offers guided tours and free admission with advance reservations.
- 5:30 PM to 7:00 PM – End the day with a stunning sunset view from the Santa Monica Mountains. Take a scenic drive up to the mountains for breathtaking views of the city.
Day 4 – Universal Studios:
- 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM – Spend the day at Universal Studios Hollywood for thrilling rides and movie magic. Experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, take the studio tour, and see your favorite movies come to life. Don’t forget to try the famous butterbeer!
Day 5 – Pasadena & Arcadia:
- 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM – Visit the stunning Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens in Pasadena. Explore the beautiful gardens and learn about the history of the library and art museum.
- 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM – Have lunch at the charming Old Town Pasadena filled with boutique shops and galleries. Try the famous tacos at Guisados or the artisanal ice cream at Creamology.
- 1:30 PM to 3:00 PM – Visit the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden in Arcadia. Stroll through the gardens and see the peacocks roaming free.
- 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM – End the day with a visit to the historic Santa Anita Park for horse racing and entertainment. Check the schedule for races and events.
Day 6 – West LA & Culver City:
- 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM – Visit the iconic Museum of Jurassic Technology in Culver City for a unique experience. Learn about the history of science and technology through art installations and exhibits.
- 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM – Have lunch at the trendy Platform in Culver City, filled with chic boutiques and cafes. Try the famous pastries at Lodge Bread or the artisanal sandwiches at Hayden.
- 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM – Visit the iconic Getty Museum for art and architecture. The museum offers free admission, but make sure to reserve tickets online in advance.
- 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM – End the day with a visit to the Annenberg Space for Photography for some visual inspiration. Check the schedule for photography exhibits and events.
Day 7 – Beverly Hills & Sunset Boulevard:
- 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM – Take a scenic drive on Sunset Boulevard and see the iconic landmarks like the Chateau Marmont and Whiskey a Go Go. Stop at the Beverly Hills sign for a photo op.
- 12:30 PM to 2:00 PM – Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art for contemporary art exhibitions. The museum offers free admission on Thursdays.
- 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM – Have lunch at the famous Beverly Hills restaurant Spago, known for its celebrity clientele and gourmet cuisine.
- 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM – End the day with a visit to the iconic Griffith Observatory for a stunning view of the city at sunset. Watch the stars come out and take in the beautiful LA skyline.
We hope you enjoy this 7-day itinerary for exploring the best of Los Angeles. LA is a city that has something for everyone, and this itinerary offers a mix of iconic landmarks, trendy neighborhoods, and stunning natural beauty. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, LA will leave you with unforgettable memories and experiences.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
Los Angeles, or LA, is the second most populous city in the United States, after New York City. Located in Southern California, LA is a diverse and multicultural city with a rich history and vibrant culture. The city is known for its iconic landmarks, beautiful beaches, and Hollywood glamour, but it’s also a hub for innovation and creativity.
LA has a complex history that spans thousands of years. Before the arrival of Europeans, the region was inhabited by various Native American tribes, including the Tongva, Chumash, and Tataviam. In 1781, the city was founded by Spanish colonists and named “El Pueblo de la Reina de los Angeles,” or “The Town of the Queen of Angels.” The city grew rapidly in the 20th century, fueled by the entertainment industry and the aerospace industry.
Today, LA is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, with a diverse population that includes Latinos, African Americans, Asians, and Europeans. The city is known for its vibrant music and arts scene, with famous venues like the Hollywood Bowl and the Walt Disney Concert Hall. LA is also home to many world-class museums, including the Getty Center, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Natural History Museum.
LA is famous for its cuisine, which is heavily influenced by its multicultural population. Some of the most popular dishes include tacos, sushi, Korean barbecue, and In-N-Out Burger. LA is also known for its farmers markets, which offer fresh produce and artisanal products.
The cost of living in LA is generally higher than in other parts of the United States, especially in areas like Beverly Hills and Santa Monica. However, there are also more affordable neighborhoods, such as East LA and Mid-City. The official language of the city is English, but Spanish is also widely spoken, especially in Latino neighborhoods.
The climate in LA is Mediterranean, with mild, rainy winters and warm, dry summers. The city is known for its sunny weather and temperate climate, which make it an ideal destination for outdoor activities. However, LA is also prone to wildfires and droughts, which can affect air quality and water resources.
LA is a hub for the entertainment industry, with many major studios and production companies located in the city. The economy is also diversified, with strong sectors in aerospace, technology, and tourism. LA is home to several world-renowned universities, including the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and the University of Southern California (USC), which attract students and scholars from around the globe.
Overall, LA is a vibrant and dynamic city with a rich history and diverse culture. Whether you’re interested in entertainment, culture, or outdoor activities, LA has something for everyone.
