Westwood

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Westwood's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Westwood Village
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through the charming Westwood Village, enjoying breakfast at a local café. Visit the iconic Rocket Pizza and enjoy a slice of their famous pizza, or stop by a coffee shop for a delicious brew. The vibrant atmosphere of the village will energize you for the day ahead.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon exploring the UCLA campus, admiring the stunning architecture and art installations. Take a leisurely walk through the Franklin D. Murphy Sculpture Garden and appreciate the blend of nature and creativity. Make sure to grab lunch at the UCLA Food Court, which offers a variety of international cuisines.

evening
:

As the sun sets, head to one of the local theaters to catch a movie or live performance. Enjoy dinner at a trendy Westwood restaurant, where you can indulge in diverse culinary delights. Wind down the evening with a leisurely walk back through Westwood Village, soaking in the lively nightlife.

day 2
Hiking and Nature
morning
:

Lace up your hiking boots and set off on a morning adventure at the nearby Bel Air Hills. The fresh air and scenic views will invigorate you as you navigate the picturesque trails. Don't forget to pack some snacks for a perfect mid-hike break while you soak in the beauty of nature.

afternoon
:

After your hike, unwind with a leisurely picnic at the nearby Franklin Canyon Park. With beautiful landscapes and serene areas to relax, it’s the perfect spot to recharge. Consider visiting the reservoir area to see local wildlife and enjoy the tranquility of nature.

evening
:

Spend your evening at one of Westwood's excellent sushi restaurants, sampling fresh sashimi and nigiri. Afterwards, take a stroll through the area to discover unique shops and perhaps enjoy some gelato for dessert. The ambiance of Westwood at dusk makes for a perfect end to the day.

day 3
Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to the Hammer Museum to appreciate contemporary art and thought-provoking exhibitions. Arrive early to avoid crowds and fully immerse yourself in the artistic experience. Enjoy a light breakfast at the museum café while discussing the exhibits with fellow art lovers.

afternoon
:

Afterward, visit the nearby Los Angeles Public Library’s Westwood branch, a quaint location filled with resources, books, and community events. Spend some time reading or exploring the vast collection of literature and multimedia. The library offers a peaceful environment, perfect for an afternoon of learning.

evening
:

Cap off your cultural day by dining at a bistro that features farm-to-table dishes. Savor a meal crafted with local ingredients, followed by a visit to a local bookstore for a cozy evening of browsing. You might even find a new favorite read to take home with you.

day 4
Day Trip to Santa Monica
morning
:

On this day, take a short drive to Santa Monica for breathtaking ocean views and beach vibes. Enjoy breakfast at one of the many beachfront cafés, relishing the sound of crashing waves. A morning walk along the iconic Santa Monica Pier sets a perfect tropical mood.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon on the beach, soaking up the sun or trying out some water sports like paddle boarding or kayaking. Alternatively, explore the Third Street Promenade, filled with shops, street performers, and inviting restaurants. Be sure to grab lunch from a food truck that offers diverse culinary options.

evening
:

As evening approaches, enjoy a sunset dinner at a seaside restaurant, where the views of the Pacific make for a picturesque dining experience. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach to feel the sandy toes and ocean breeze. End your day with a sweet treat from a nearby ice cream shop.

day 5
Shopping and Dining
morning
:

Delve into the local shopping scene with a visit to the Westwood Village shops. Browse through boutiques showcasing unique clothing, artisanal goods, and gifts. A relaxed breakfast at a nearby café will fuel you up for a fun shopping day.

afternoon
:

Continue your shopping adventure by heading to the Westside Pavilion, home to various shops and boutiques. Enjoy a casual lunch at the food court, where you can sample various delights from different cuisines. Don’t forget to explore the music and entertainment options often available in the area.

evening
:

As the day wraps up, treat yourself to dinner at a renowned steakhouse. The rich flavors and cozy atmosphere will make for a memorable dining experience. Conclude your day with a cocktail at a chic bar in Westwood Village, enjoying live music or a vibrant crowd.

day 6
Sports and Recreation
morning
:

Start your morning with an exciting visit to a UCLA Bruins game if it's in season. The energy of the crowd and excitement of college sports creates an exhilarating atmosphere. Breakfast at a campus café will set you up for a day of action.

afternoon
:

After the game, enjoy some outdoor recreational activities such as basketball or tennis at the UCLA facilities. Engage with local athletes or simply enjoy the campus grounds while soaking in the sun. Grab lunch at a vibrant food truck offering delicious options for a mid-afternoon boost.

evening
:

To round off your sporty day, head to a local pub for dinner and watch the evening games on TV. Grab a plate of wings or a hearty burger while sharing stories of the day's athletic events. The camaraderie in the sports bar makes for a lively and entertaining ending to your day.

day 7
Art and Theatre
morning
:

Start your day at the Geffen Playhouse, checking out their schedule for informative talks or workshops. Engaging with the art community early in the day will provide inspiration for what’s to come. Enjoy a light breakfast at a nearby bakery, savoring fresh pastries.

afternoon
:

Walk through local galleries showcasing both emerging and established artists. Engage in conversations with gallery owners and curators to gain insights into the local art scene. Lunch at a charming café gives you the perfect respite before diving back into creative exploration.

evening
:

In the evening, attend a performance at the Geffen Playhouse and immerse yourself in the transformative power of live theatre. After the show, enjoy a late dinner at a nearby restaurant, delving into conversations about the performance over a delightful meal. The night ends with a stroll through the vibrant streets of Westwood.

day 8
Wine Tasting Experience
morning
:

Begin your day with a visit to a local wine shop for a tasting session and learning about wines from California. Expand your palate with samples while enjoying the company of fellow wine enthusiasts. A light breakfast paired with fresh pastries will set the pace for a delightful day ahead.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon exploring surrounding vineyards and enjoying scenic views. Participate in guided tours to learn about the winemaking process while sampling exquisite wines. Make sure to savor a picnic lunch surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of the vineyards.

evening
:

As evening descends, indulge in a gourmet meal at a restaurant known for its extensive wine list. Pair your dishes with recommended wines for a complete tasting experience. The elegant ambiance makes for a perfect end to a day dedicated to the pleasures of wine and good food.

day 9
Health and Wellness
morning
:

Kick off the day with an invigorating yoga session at a local studio, embracing tranquility and mindfulness. The fresh city air and serene atmosphere will refresh your spirit and set a positive tone for the day ahead. A healthy breakfast at a juice bar gives you the nutrients to fuel your wellness journey.

afternoon
:

Indulge in an afternoon of self-care with a visit to a nearby spa offering relaxing treatments. Opt for massages or facials that emphasize well-being and restorative relaxation. Enjoy a nutritious lunch at a health-conscious restaurant to replenish your body.

evening
:

End your wellness-focused day with a peaceful dinner at a farm-to-table eatery. Savor the flavors of freshly sourced ingredients that promote health and nourishment. Take a stroll afterward, reflecting on your rejuvenating day amidst the beauty of Westwood.

Discover Westwood

Read more in our Westwood 2025 Travel Guide.

Westwood Travel Guide