Los Angeles

Day Trips

Your morning begins with a stroll along the Santa Monica Pier boardwalk, enjoying ocean breezes and street performances. You can grab a hearty breakfast at one of the beachfront cafes while watching surfers catch the waves. The soft sand underfoot and iconic Ferris wheel views set the perfect tone for a relaxing start to your trip.

Spend the afternoon wandering Third Street Promenade with its lively shops and street musicians. Pop into boutiques for unique souvenirs and sample local snacks from food trucks stationed nearby. Be sure to rent a bike and pedal along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail for scenic coastal vistas.

As the sun sets, return to the pier for a ride on Pacific Park’s Ferris wheel and indulge in classic carnival treats. Enjoy dinner at a seafood restaurant overlooking the water, savoring fresh fish tacos or clam chowder. Then, take a sunset walk along the beach to end your first night in LA on a magical note.

Begin your day with a moderate hike up to Griffith Observatory, enjoying panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline and the iconic Hollywood sign. Once at the top, explore interactive exhibits on space and gaze through the antique telescopes. The fresh morning air and sweeping vistas make for an inspirational start to your LA adventure.

Descend into Hollywood to stroll along the Walk of Fame and find your favorite stars embedded in the sidewalk. Stop by TCL Chinese Theatre to compare your handprints with those of movie legends. Grab a light lunch at a nearby cafe while people-watching on Hollywood Boulevard.

Head to the Sunset Strip for dinner at a trendy bistro or classic dive bar. Enjoy live music or comedy at one of the many iconic venues, soaking in the vibrant nightlife. Cap off the evening with a drive up Mulholland Drive for glittering city lights below.

Kick off your morning in Downtown LA at The Broad museum, admiring its contemporary art installations and the vibrant ‘Infinity Mirror Rooms.’ Then wander over to the Walt Disney Concert Hall to appreciate Frank Gehry’s architectural masterpiece and take a guided tour of the interior. Enjoy a specialty coffee in the adjacent MOCA’s serene courtyard before moving on.

Head to Grand Central Market for lunch, choosing from an array of international food stalls that define LA’s melting-pot culture. Afterward, visit the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) to explore groundbreaking exhibitions from established and emerging artists. Don’t miss crossing the street to view the historic Bradbury Building’s ornate ironwork and light-filled atrium.

Take in panoramic nighttime views of the city at OUE Skyspace, gliding down the glass Skyslide if you’re feeling adventurous. Dine in the Fashion District or nearby Arts District at a stylish gastropub showcasing local craft beers and seasonal fare. End your evening browsing unique art installations and murals that light up the streets.

Begin your day with breakfast at a chic cafe along Beverly Drive, rubbing shoulders with glamorous locals. Then take a leisurely stroll down Rodeo Drive, window-shopping at high-end boutiques and admiring the luxury storefronts. Don’t miss the manicured gardens of Beverly Gardens Park for a perfect photo op under the iconic Beverly Hills sign.

After lunch at a stylish bistro, head to West Hollywood’s Melrose Avenue for eclectic shops and vibrant street art. Explore hidden alleys and visit trendy concept stores that define LA’s fashion-forward reputation. Pause for a cocktail in one of the cozy lounge bars before resuming your exploration.

As dusk settles, make your way to the Sunset Strip for dinner at a legendary restaurant frequented by celebrities. Catch a live performance at a storied music venue or try your luck at a comedy club. End the night with signature cocktails at a rooftop bar, soaking in the city lights and upbeat atmosphere.

Start your morning by strolling along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, marveling at the eccentric street performers and colorful murals. Check out Muscle Beach’s outdoor gym to watch bodybuilders lift and train in the open air. Pause for a fresh juice or smoothie at one of the bohemian cafes facing the ocean.

Make your way to Abbot Kinney Boulevard for a laid-back afternoon filled with boutique shopping and artisanal galleries. Discover handcrafted jewelry, unique home decor, and vintage fashion among the neighborhood’s trendy storefronts. Stop for a gourmet lunch at a hip eatery, sampling farm-to-table fare or vegan specialties.

As evening approaches, head back to the beach for a spectacular sunset over the Pacific. Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant serving fresh seafood and California cuisine. Cap off the night with a stroll along the sand or by grabbing dessert from a local ice cream parlor.

Embark on a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway heading to Malibu, with the morning light sparkling on the ocean. Stop at Zuma Beach for a peaceful walk on the sand and maybe a quick dip in the surf. Continue north to El Matador State Beach, where sea caves and rock formations create a dramatic coastal landscape.

For lunch, pull off at a seaside cafe in Malibu Village and enjoy fresh fish tacos or a hearty grain bowl. After eating, explore the Malibu Pier and its quaint shops before heading to a local winery for an afternoon tasting. Soak up the vineyard views and warm California sun as you sample regional wines.

Return toward LA as the sun dips, stopping for dinner at a cliffside restaurant with panoramic ocean vistas. Indulge in farm-to-table California cuisine while the sky turns pastel hues over the water. Finish the evening with a relaxing drive back under the stars along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Arrive early at Universal Studios Hollywood to beat the crowds and start your day with thrilling rides like the Revenge of the Mummy and Transformers. Immerse yourself in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter with a steaming butterbeer and a ride on Hogwarts Express. The crisp morning air and shorter lines make this the perfect time to conquer major attractions.

Grab a quick lunch at one of the park’s themed eateries before hopping on the Studio Tour to see real sets and special effects in action. Continue exploring immersive lands like Springfield and Jurassic World, balancing adrenaline-filled rides with family-friendly shows. Pause for a snack and explore the park’s unique shops for souvenirs.

Stay until park closing to experience the night shows and spectacular light projections on the castle. Dine at Universal CityWalk, choosing from a variety of restaurants and live entertainment venues. Cap off your evening with a drink at a rooftop bar overlooking the bustling outdoor mall.

Start your day at the Getty Center perched in the hills above Los Angeles, arriving as it opens to avoid the crowds. Wander through its manicured gardens and marvel at European paintings, decorative arts, and sculptures. Take in sweeping views of the city and coastline through the museum’s soaring glass architecture.

Descend into Westwood Village for lunch at a neighborhood cafe frequented by UCLA students. Afterward, explore the campus’s historic architecture and stroll through the Hammer Museum for more contemporary art. Enjoy a leisurely coffee break at a local bakery before continuing your day.

Head to nearby Brentwood for dinner at a farm-to-table restaurant that sources ingredients from local growers. Sample California wines and artisanal cheeses on an outdoor patio under twinkling lights. Return to your accommodations with a satisfied palate and peaceful evening ambiance.

Depart early for a picturesque drive up the 101 freeway toward Santa Barbara, known as the American Riviera. Begin your visit at the Old Mission Santa Barbara, exploring its beautiful gardens and historic chapel. Wander through the adjacent rose garden, breathing in floral scents and learning about the mission’s storied past.

Stroll along State Street’s palm-lined promenade, popping into boutiques, galleries, and local chocolatiers. Stop for lunch at a waterfront cafe on Stearns Wharf, sampling fresh seafood while ocean breezes waft by. Consider renting a bike to explore the beachfront bike path or relax on the sandy beach for a bit.

As the sun sets, climb up to the Santa Barbara County Courthouse clock tower for panoramic vistas of the coastline and city. Enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant downtown, pairing regional wines with hearty Spanish or California-inspired dishes. Drive back to Los Angeles under the stars, reflecting on your coastal adventure.

Spend your final morning exploring the laid-back Echo Park neighborhood with its hip cafes and funky street art. Rent a paddle boat on Echo Park Lake for a serene moment beneath the downtown skyline. Grab brunch at a beloved local diner known for its creative twists on classic dishes.

Head to Silver Lake for last-minute shopping at indie boutiques and vinyl record stores. Take a stroll along the Silver Lake Reservoir walking path, passing arched bridges and grassy parklands. Enjoy a light lunch at a trendy cafe, sampling avocado toast or grain bowls with local ingredients.

Wrap up your trip with a farewell dinner at an In-N-Out near the airport for a taste of LA’s iconic burger joint or choose a fine-dining restaurant downtown. Savor your final bites of California cuisine as you reminisce about the week’s highlights. Make your way to LAX in time for your evening departure, filled with memories of a dynamic Los Angeles adventure.