Los Angeles 2 weeks

An iconic pier offering amusement park rides, aquarium, and stunning ocean views. It's a lively hub for entertainment and people-watching, with a historic carousel and a fishing area.

• Arrive early to avoid crowds, especially on weekends.
• Consider a ride on the Ferris wheel for panoramic views.

A pedestrian-only street filled with a variety of retail stores, from popular chains to unique boutiques, alongside street performers and diverse dining options.

• Look out for local artisan stalls on weekends.
• Plenty of casual eateries for lunch.

A wide, sandy beach perfect for relaxing, swimming, or beach volleyball. The adjacent beach path is ideal for a leisurely stroll or bike ride.

• Rent a bike and explore the Marvin Braude Bike Trail.
• Pack sunscreen and a hat.

An upscale restaurant offering exquisite seafood and Californian cuisine with breathtaking ocean views, especially at sunset. It's known for its romantic ambiance and impeccable service.

• Reservations are highly recommended, particularly for sunset seating.
• Dress code is smart casual.

Famous for its forecourt and handprints/footprints of movie stars, this historic theater is a must-see for film buffs. Explore the Walk of Fame nearby.

• Look for the famous handprints and compare yours!
• Consider a backstage tour for more insight.

A vibrant stretch of Hollywood Boulevard adorned with more than 2,700 brass stars honoring entertainment industry figures. It's a bustling area with souvenir shops and street performers.

• Use a map app to find specific stars.
• Be aware of street vendors and performers.

Offers unparalleled views of the Los Angeles basin, the Hollywood Sign, and the Pacific Ocean. Inside, explore fascinating exhibits on space and astronomy, and enjoy planetarium shows.

• Check the schedule for free telescope viewings in the evening.
• Parking can be challenging; consider rideshare or the DASH Observatory bus.

A legendary Hollywood institution serving classic American fare and expertly crafted cocktails since 1919. It's a step back in time with its old-school Hollywood ambiance.

• Try their signature martinis.
• Reservations are recommended.

An architectural marvel housing an impressive collection of European paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts. The stunning gardens and panoramic city views are equally captivating.

• Admission is free, but parking has a fee.
• Take advantage of the free guided tours to enhance your experience.

A historic food hall featuring a vibrant array of vendors offering diverse cuisines from around the world. It's a bustling spot perfect for sampling various dishes.

• Come hungry and try a few different vendors.
• It can get crowded during peak lunch hours.

The largest art museum in the western United States, featuring a diverse collection spanning ancient to contemporary art. Don't miss the iconic Urban Light installation.

• The 'Urban Light' sculpture is best viewed at dusk or night.
• Check for special exhibitions.

A highly acclaimed Italian restaurant in the Arts District known for its rustic, refined dishes and energetic atmosphere. The handmade pastas and wood-fired pizzas are highlights.

• Reservations are essential and often booked weeks in advance.
• The tasting menu is a great way to experience their signature dishes.

A stunning historic estate and park offering beautiful architecture and meticulously maintained gardens. It provides a tranquil escape with city views, often used as a filming location.

• Check the schedule for any events or private functions.
• The mansion interior may have limited access depending on events.

World-renowned for its luxury designer boutiques, high-end fashion, and opulent atmosphere. It's a destination for window shopping and experiencing the epitome of Beverly Hills style.

• Take photos outside the designer flagship stores.
• Consider visiting the smaller boutiques for unique finds.

An impressive example of Renaissance Revival architecture, this landmark building offers a glimpse into the city's governance and history. Its ornate interior and exterior are notable.

• Free to enter and explore the public areas.
• Look for the beautiful stained-glass dome.

An iconic Hollywood haunt famous for its pink decor and celebrity clientele. It's the perfect spot for classic cocktails and soaking in the glamorous atmosphere.

• Dress code is smart casual.
• Often busy, especially during happy hour.

Wander through the vibrant streets of the Arts District, discovering large-scale, colorful murals by local and international artists. It's an outdoor gallery showcasing LA's dynamic street art scene.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
• Many murals are concentrated around Mateo Street and Traction Avenue.

A popular Middle Eastern restaurant in the Arts District offering a vibrant dining experience with delicious small plates and flavorful main courses. The ambiance is lively and chic.

• Reservations are highly recommended.
• The hummus and pita bread are a must-try.

A contemporary art museum featuring a diverse collection of post-war and contemporary art. Its distinctive architecture and free general admission make it a popular destination.

• General admission is free but requires advance booking for timed entry.
• Special exhibitions often have a fee.

A French-inspired rooftop bar and restaurant offering spectacular panoramic views of the Los Angeles skyline. It's an ideal spot for evening drinks and light bites.

• Arrive early for a good spot, especially on weekends.
• Dress code is smart casual.

A lively and eclectic stretch known for its street performers, artists, skate park, and Muscle Beach. It's a vibrant hub of activity and people-watching.

• Be open to the unique characters and atmosphere.
• Great for people-watching and street art.

A trendy street lined with unique boutiques, art galleries, and acclaimed restaurants. It offers a more upscale and curated shopping experience compared to the boardwalk.

• Explore the independent designer shops.
• Numerous excellent cafes and eateries for lunch.

A peaceful and picturesque area featuring a network of man-made canals, charming bridges, and beautiful homes. It's a lovely place for a leisurely walk and photography.

• Walk along the paths bordering the canals.
• Admire the unique architecture and landscaping.

A highly popular restaurant on Abbot Kinney Boulevard known for its farm-to-table Californian cuisine, wood-fired pizzas, and lively atmosphere. It's a favorite among locals and visitors.

• Reservations are very difficult to secure; book well in advance.
• The vegetable dishes are exceptional.

An architectural masterpiece designed by Frank Gehry, known for its striking stainless steel curves. It's a stunning building to admire from the outside, and tours are available.

• Take the guided tour for an in-depth look.
• The Blue Ribbon Garden offers great city views.

A vibrant urban oasis stretching from the Music Center to City Hall, featuring fountains, performance spaces, and gardens. It's a popular spot for relaxation and community events.

A historic architectural gem famous for its stunning Victorian-era interior, featuring an ornate wrought-iron cage, skylight, and marble staircases. It's a photographer's dream.

• Only the ground floor and first landing are typically accessible to the public.
• Recognizable from many films, including Blade Runner.

A historic and culturally rich neighborhood offering a taste of Japanese culture with its restaurants, shops, and temples. Enjoy authentic cuisine and unique retail experiences.

• Explore the Japanese Village Plaza.
• Try ramen or sushi at one of the many restaurants.

Go behind the scenes of a real working studio, exploring soundstages, backlots, and iconic sets from movies and TV shows. Get an insider's look at filmmaking magic.

• Book tickets online in advance.
• Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking.

A vibrant entertainment, dining, and shopping complex adjacent to Universal Studios Hollywood. It offers a lively atmosphere with numerous stores and restaurants.

• Great spot for lunch with many options.
• Catch street entertainment.

A theme park and working movie studio offering thrilling rides, shows, and attractions based on popular films and TV shows. The Studio Tour is a highlight here as well.

• Consider purchasing a front-of-line pass during peak seasons.
• Download the park app for wait times and show schedules.

Showcasing a vast collection of historic and contemporary automobiles, this museum offers a journey through automotive history. Its striking exterior architecture is also noteworthy.

• Don't miss the rooftop parking lot for unique car displays.
• Check out the rotating special exhibits.

A historic landmark with over 100 diverse food stalls and specialty shops. It's a bustling marketplace offering a wide variety of cuisines and a lively atmosphere.

• A great spot for a casual lunch with many options.
• Sample different treats from various vendors.

Explore the wonders of the natural world with exhibits ranging from dinosaur skeletons and gems to California's ecosystems and human cultures. It's engaging for all ages.

• The Dinosaur Hall is a major highlight.
• Allow ample time to explore the extensive collections.

Housed in a stunning historic building, this restaurant offers exceptional French-inspired cuisine and a beautiful ambiance. It's known for its delicious pastries and refined dinner menu.

• Reservations are essential.
• Consider visiting the bakery for breakfast or lunch another day.

Explore the vast urban park with numerous trails offering stunning views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. The trails range from easy walks to more strenuous hikes.

• Wear sturdy hiking shoes and bring plenty of water.
• Consider the trail to the Griffith Observatory for iconic views.

A charming cafe located within Griffith Park, offering sandwiches, salads, coffee, and baked goods. It's a perfect spot to refuel after a hike.

• Enjoy your meal on their outdoor patio.
• Their coffee is a popular choice.

Various locations within Griffith Park and surrounding areas offer iconic views of the Hollywood Sign. The Griffith Observatory is a popular spot, but other trails provide different perspectives.

• The best light for photos is often in the late afternoon.
• Use a zoom lens for clearer shots of the sign.

A cozy and popular neighborhood Italian-American restaurant known for its comforting dishes and relaxed atmosphere. It's a local favorite for a satisfying meal.

• The Sunday Gravy is a signature dish.
• Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

An expansive estate featuring world-class art collections and themed botanical gardens, including a Japanese Garden, Chinese Garden, and Rose Garden. It's a serene and beautiful place to explore.

• Allow at least 3-4 hours to see the highlights.
• Check the map for the various garden sections.

A historic district with a charming atmosphere, featuring Victorian architecture, unique boutiques, art galleries, and diverse dining options. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll and shopping.

• Explore Colorado Boulevard for shops and restaurants.
• Many charming courtyards to discover.

A beautiful botanical garden offering themed collections, including a rose garden, camellia forest, and oak forest. It's a peaceful retreat with seasonal floral displays.

• The Enchanted Railroad is a fun attraction for all ages.
• Check seasonal bloom reports.

A picturesque pier offering great ocean views, fishing, and dining options. It's a more laid-back alternative to Santa Monica Pier, with a relaxed coastal vibe.

• Enjoy the views and the sound of the waves.
• There's a restaurant at the end of the pier.

One of Malibu's most popular and expansive beaches, known for its wide sandy shores and excellent swimming conditions. It's a great spot for a relaxing beach day.

• Parking lots are available, but can fill up.
• Plenty of space for picnicking.

Offers stunning cliffside views of the coastline, tide pools, and opportunities for whale watching (in season). It's a beautiful natural area for a scenic walk.

• The hike to the top is relatively easy and rewarding.
• Keep an eye out for dolphins.

An exclusive and world-renowned Japanese restaurant offering exquisite sushi and seafood with unparalleled oceanfront dining. The ambiance is chic and sophisticated.

• Reservations are extremely difficult to obtain; book months in advance.
• The tasting menu is highly recommended.

An outdoor retail and entertainment complex featuring a mix of popular brands, specialty stores, and a historic trolley. It's a lively place for shopping, dining, and people-watching.

• Ride the free trolley around the complex.
• Enjoy the atmosphere and fountains.

Adjacent to The Grove, this historic market offers a vast array of food vendors serving diverse cuisines. It's a perfect spot for a casual and varied lunch.

• Try different ethnic foods.
• Plenty of seating available.

A large, upscale shopping mall featuring a wide range of designer and department stores. It's a premier destination for fashion and luxury goods.

• Home to many high-end brands.
• Offers a good variety of dining options within the mall.

A trendy, exclusive lounge and restaurant known for its celebrity sightings and upscale ambiance. It's a popular spot for drinks and a sophisticated evening out.

• Dress to impress.
• Entry can be exclusive; arriving early or having a reservation is advised.

Revisit this vibrant food hall for a final taste of LA's diverse culinary scene. Explore vendors you missed or revisit favorites.

• Try the famous eggslut breakfast sandwich.
• It's a great spot to grab souvenirs from local food vendors.

The historic heart of Los Angeles, offering a glimpse into Mexican heritage with its colorful marketplace, traditional food, and historical buildings. It's a lively cultural experience.

• Sample authentic Mexican street food.
• Browse the unique artisan crafts.

Depending on your flight schedule, you might have time for some last-minute souvenir shopping in areas like Downtown LA or near your accommodation.

Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the primary international airport serving Los Angeles and its surrounding metropolitan area. Ensure you allow ample time for check-in and security.

• Consider using the LAX FlyAway bus for efficient transport from various city points.
• Check your terminal and airline for specific recommendations.