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These Two LA Hot Spots Just Got Added to the California Michelin Guide

Downtown skyscraper restaurant Niku X and a Studio City sushi compound will join the Michelin Guide for 2023

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The Michelin Guide is perhaps the world’s most famous restaurant guidebook. With its bright red color tones and hard-to-earn stars, among other accolades the Michelin company doles out, the guide has become synonymous with a certain kind (often narrowly defined) dining experience around the globe. Now two new Los Angeles restaurants will be added to the book this year, though it hasn’t yet been revealed precisely how.

On March 8 , Michelin teased six new additions to the overall guide this year for California, spread up and down the state. Local to LA, the focus was on two spots , including Leona’s Sushi House, the sprawling Studio City compound that only opened back in December 2022 . Calling the food “irreverent” and “crave-worthy,” the guide lauds the restaurant for having both “terrific food” and “great ambiance.”

The second local restaurant teased by Michelin for the 2023 guide is Niku X , the spendy wagyu-focused Downtown restaurant from the team behind upscale hotpot spot X Pot that opened in November 2022 . Located inside a high-rise building at 900 Wilshire Boulevard, the restaurant earned praise from Michelin for its “classic Yakiniku-style cooking with contemporary techniques,” served in a “stunner” of a space.

Both Leona’s Sushi House and Niku X will be found in this year’s Michelin book, but it remains to be seen whether either will earn a coveted Michelin star. For now they are only being teased as “new” additions for the year 2023, with the aim being to both promote the guide ahead of its fall arrival, and to “help food lovers to enjoy new discoveries before the annual announcement.” Michelin also hands out Bib Gourmands to many restaurants within its guidebook, noting that the restaurant is doing something worthy of praise but not, for that year at least, at the level of a Michelin star.

Leona's Sushi House

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30 Los Angeles attractions for tourists and natives alike

Whether you’re a tourist visiting for the weekend or a native looking to explore, these are the essential Los Angeles attractions for any trip

L.A. covers a mindbogglingly massive volume of land (and for that matter, ocean too). So it’s no surprise that Los Angeles packs in an enormous number of world-class attractions. If you’re a tourist looking out for  things to do , you’ll have no problem finding vacation inspiration, from  Hollywood tours  to a day at one of the city’s  best beaches . And locals might very well find ways to fall in love with the city all over again in our extensive list of the best Los Angeles attractions.

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

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30 essential L.A. attractions for sightseeing

1.  Griffith Observatory

• Science and technology
• Griffith Park
• price 1 of 4

The vista from the Griffith Observatory is stunning, particularly at night when the whole of Los Angeles twinkles below you. Inside this hilltop landmark you’ll find a selection of exhibits, including a Foucault pendulum, Tesla coil and planetarium show. Give yourself plenty of time before the 10pm closing to line up and gaze through the 12-inch refracting telescope on the roof. Otherwise don’t worry: You can look through the far less crowded modern, reflecting telescopes often set up on the front lawn. Just a heads up that parking now costs about $10 per hour—though you can take a DASH bus up there for only 35 cents with a TAP card.

2.  Getty Center

• Art and design

Free timed tickets required.

What we now call the Getty Villa  (itself worth a visit) was the decades-long Pacific Palisades home for the J. Paul Getty Trust’s huge art collection. But that all changed in 1997, when the Getty Center opened in Brentwood. It’s a truly distinctive building, a remarkable complex of travertine and white metal-clad pavilions. Inside you’ll find ornate French furniture, famous Impressionist pieces and a series of rotating exhibitions. It’s not exactly the most accessible of locations, but when you get there it’s more than compensated for by the astonishing views, which run from the hills and ocean in the west all the way across to Downtown in the east.

3.  Huntington Library, Art Collections & Botanical Gardens

• Things to do
• Event spaces
• price 2 of 4

Timed reservations required on weekends, recommended on weekdays.

Bequeathed by railroad magnate Henry E. Huntington, this splendid library and art collection now makes for one of the most enjoyable attractions in the Los Angeles area. Between the library holdings, the art and the sublime outdoor spaces, there’s easily enough to see at this San Marino space to fill an entire afternoon—indeed, it’s definitely best taken at a leisurely pace rather than any sort of mad dash. From a Gutenberg Bible to an exquisitely landscaped Japanese garden, pretty much every inch of the estate’s grounds and collection is essential (including new additions like the renovated tea room and a restored Japanese house ).

4.  Grand Central Market

• Restaurants
• Downtown Historic Core

Operating on the ground floor of the iconic Homer Laughlin Building since 1917, this European-style food hall is a true Los Angeles mainstay. Even if you’re not personally in the market for food, you should definitely still come; people from all corners of L.A. mingle and mix among rows of spices, produce and vintage neon signage. And if you are hungry then boy have you come to right place: get yourself some affordable pupusas, carnitas tacos and aguas frescas, or else food from handsome, trendy eateries like Sticky Rice , Broad Street Oyster Co. , Shiku ,  Eggslut and G&B Coffee .

5.  Santa Monica Pier

• Historic buildings and sites
• Downtown Santa Monica

The focal point of the iconic Santa Monica Beach, Santa Monica Pier is bursting with fun (but crowded) things to do: it includes a Ferris wheel, aquarium, fairground games and cotton candy stands. On weekends when the weather’s warm, the stretch is busy with families, beach bums and the gym bunnies who do their public workouts at the original Muscle Beach, just to the south of the pier. In recent years, the Pier has played host to a number of outdoor film and music events , which tends to bring in a (slightly) trendier clientele to the boardwalk.

6.  Hollywood Bowl

First opening at its prime location in the Hollywood Hills way back 1922, in the century since this stunning open-air amphitheatre has regularly featured on the screen large and small, and welcomed major acts to its stage. When there isn’t a concert on, members of the public are free to visit at any time.  But if you do want to see some live concert action—and really, why wouldn’t you?—we’d strongly advise you to take along a picnic (perhaps one with a bottle of wine or two) when you go to see the LA Philharmonic or one of the many stellar pop acts that call in on tour.

7.  Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

• Miracle Mile

Timed tickets recommended.

It feels like it’s taken no time at all for Chris Burden’s Urban Light (an outdoor art installation made up of 202 cast-iron street lamps that have been sourced from around L.A. and carefully repaired so they work again) to become one of the city’s most beloved landmarks. But it would be a shame if you just left it at the Instagram-friendly installation; step inside and you’ll find LACMA’s collections boast modernist masterpieces, large-scale contemporary works and consistently terrific special exhibitions. Just note that the eastern half of the campus is currently under construction, with a single-building replacement due to be completed by the end of 2024.

8.  Venice Beach and Boardwalk

Venice Beach is actually a pretty good beach: the sand is soft, the beach big, with postcard views of the mountainous coastline. However, people-watching is unquestionably the raison d'être here. Expect attention-grabbing street performers along the sort-of-grimy Venice Boardwalk and pumped-up gym obsessives working out at Muscle Beach. Street parking is usually jammed, but there are several beachside lots. For a completely different side of Venice , take a stroll through the idyllic Venice Canals . 

Book a Segway tour of the beach.

9.  The Broad

Three words: Infinity Mirror Rooms. Downtown’s persistently popular contemporary art museum has two of Yayoi Kusama’s immersive, mirror-laden rooms (and you can book a reservation for its most spectacular one in advance now). Elsewhere in the free museum, Eli and Edythe Broad’s collection of 2,000 post-war works includes artists like Andy Warhol, Roy Lichtenstein, Ed Ruscha, Cindy Sherman, Barbara Kruger, Jeff Koons and Kara Walker.

10.  The Hollywood Sign

• Sightseeing

Originally created in 1923, the sign, which back then said “Hollywoodland,” was supposed to be up for only a year and a half. Yet here it is, a century later . Actually getting up close and personal to the  Hollywood Sign  is not as easy as you might think: it’s often a contentious issue thanks to the objections of local homeowners. On Beachwood Drive you can catch a dead-on glimpse of the sign, or again farther up the hill close to  Lake Hollywood Park . You want to get closer still? You could always go horseback riding at Sunset Ranch , or even lace up for a hike along the dirt road on Mt. Lee Drive—eventually you’ll find yourself standing directly above the Hollywood Sign, with a jaw-dropping 360-degree view of the city.

More great L.A. attractions

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Los Angeles   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Az Jackson | Getty Images

33 Best Things to Do in LA

Los Angeles has an exhaustive array of fun things to do, from the family-friendly La Brea Tar Pits and the must-visit Natural History Museum to a behind-the-scenes studio tour at Universal Studios or Warner Bros. Out-of-towners love the palm-lined

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park free

Griffith Observatory sits on the south face of Mount Hollywood and overlooks the Los Angeles basin. Its location gives visitors impressive views of the surrounding area, which many rave about. But there's more than just a pretty photo-op here. The observatory hosts fascinating exhibitions and features a top-notch planetarium.

Most recent visitors cited the beautiful setting as Griffith Observatory's main draw, though the free entry was certainly a bonus. However, you will have to pay between $6 and $10 to see the planetarium shows. Griffith Observatory is open Tuesdays to Fridays from noon to 10 p.m. and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. A gift shop and cafe can be found on-site as well. For information about parking, public transportation and other information to plan your visit, check out Griffith Observatory's  website .

The Getty Center The Getty Center free

The Getty Center is one of the most impressive architectural achievements in the United States – and it also contains some of the finest works of art in the world. The circular concrete-and-steel structure was designed by renowned architect Richard Meier, and it houses an abundance of art from various ages and nations. Here you'll find Renaissance paintings, 20th-century American photography, Baroque sculptures, historic manuscripts and more, all housed inside a sprawling, modern campus amid the Santa Monica Mountains. The museum also offers spectacular views of Los Angeles on clear days.

Recent travelers loved the museum for its vast collection and beautiful grounds and views, with some stating that they enjoyed the tram ride to get to the museum. Many visitors suggest taking a guided tour, noting that the volunteer guides were very knowledgeable. Tours of the Getty Center's architecture and gardens are available, as well as a Collection Highlights tour and tours of art in specific eras. Tour times and days vary depending on tour type. Check the Getty Center's website for a complete calendar . Visitors can also download the GettyGuide app for self-guided tours.

Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre free

U.S. News Insider Tip: In this area, you'll find people dressed as celebrities and Hollywood characters, such as Spiderman, Shrek, Marilyn Monroe and Darth Vader. Have some cash on hand as a tip if you want to take photos with any of them. –  Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

One of Hollywood's most iconic and memorable sites, the TCL Chinese Theatre (originally Grauman's Chinese Theatre) opened in 1927 and represents the excess of Hollywood's Golden Age. You can take a 30-minute walking tour of the theater for $16; tours are offered daily at multiple times. Because of this attraction's popularity, it's best to reserve your spot online in advance. This working theater also shows various newly released films throughout the year.

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Santa Monica Pier and Beach Santa Monica Pier and Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Don't miss trying the classic (and yummy!) funnel cake, a kind of fried waffle topped with powdered sugar and your choice of toppings, such as strawberries, chocolate syrup, caramel syrup, whipped cream and ice cream. They are big enough to share. –  Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

West of downtown Los Angeles, Santa Monica contains one of the most legendary beach scenes in the United States. It also boasts an abundance of great restaurants and excellent nightlife spots. Its more than 3 miles of shoreline are renowned as some of the best in the area thanks to the soft sands, ideal weather and bevy of attractions. "State Beach," as it's known, has more than 300 days of sunshine a year and acted as the backdrop for the popular TV series "Baywatch."

Zuma Beach Zuma Beach free

Malibu has a reputation for excessive wealth and exclusivity, yet all of the town's beaches are public – everyone's welcome. If you're seeking an LA beach spot for sunbathing and swimming, look no further than Zuma. This 1.8-mile beach is far cleaner than those at Santa Monica or Venice Beach .

Malibu's Zuma Beach is considered one of the finest beaches in the Los Angeles area. Locals and tourists laud Zuma for its awesome waves, ample parking and easy access to beachside snacks. Plus, there are a plethora of lifeguard stations and bathroom facilities. Beach wheelchairs and a beach mat (from April to October) are also available.

Sunset Boulevard Sunset Boulevard free

One of the most iconic thoroughfares in the United States, Sunset Boulevard continues to live up to its legend. In the old days, it represented the classic and glamorous Hollywood lifestyle and became the setting of several famous films, including the obvious classic "Sunset Boulevard." Today, the palm-lined street (which connects downtown LA to Hollywood, Beverly Hills and the Pacific Coast Highway) retains its cinematic appeal, and the Sunset Strip portion has become a popular nightlife spot. The strip is also home to many classic music venues, including the Rainbow Bar & Grill and The Roxy Theatre .

Recent visitors loved driving along this famous boulevard, adding that gorgeous sunsets can be enjoyed during late afternoon drives. But like other parts of LA, this thoroughfare gets congested with traffic.

The Original Farmers Market and The Grove The Original Farmers Market and The Grove free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Kids will love riding the free, open-air, double-decker trolley that runs through The Grove and connects to The Original Farmers Market. It runs daily from 1 to 8:45 p.m. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Sitting south of West Hollywood is one of LA's most beloved landmarks: The Original Farmers Market. Founded in 1934, this cream-colored facility reels in both residents and tourists with the promise of fresh produce and the aroma of ready-to-eat snacks. You can visit throughout the week, although hours vary depending on the day. Entry is free, but you'll want to have some cash on hand should any of the treats whet your appetite. You can park for free for up to 90 minutes at the market's two lots, provided that your ticket is validated at the market. (Fees apply for parking after the allotted 90 minutes and for non-validated tickets.) For a little help navigating the market, you can also take a guided foodie tour  (one of the best California tours ).

Los Angeles County Museum of Art Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Next door to the La Brea Tar Pits sits the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the linchpin of the Los Angeles museum district. Since its 1965 opening, LACMA has showcased thousands of pieces, from Islamic artifacts to European impressionist paintings to modern art. With constantly shifting exhibitions and unique architecture, LACMA offers a rewarding experience for both serious art buffs and casual travelers.

Currently, the museum is constructing a new building for its permanent collection, called the David Geffen Galleries, which is scheduled to open in 2024. For now, pieces will be on display in the BCAM and the Resnick Pavilion. The Urban Light and Levitated Mass exhibits remain open to visitors. There is a restaurant and grab-and-go eatery on-site. Many visitors appreciated both the indoor and outdoor art exhibits and were impressed with the size of the collection of modern and contemporary art.

Half-Day Sightseeing Tour of the Best of Los Angeles

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The Broad The Broad free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Two of the most popular exhibits that have blown up on social media are Yayoi Kusama's "Infinity Mirror Rooms." You have to book tickets online for timed entry to these exhibits, but they are free and include general museum admission. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad founded The Broad museum in 2015 and the structure made for a stunning addition to downtown Los Angeles. The eye-catching, honeycomb building, designed by Diller Scofidio + Renfro in collaboration with Gensler, is home to an expansive collection of contemporary art dating from the 1950s to the present. The collection includes works by Jean Michel Basquiat, Jeff Koons, Cindy Sherman, Kara Walker and Andy Warhol. In addition to the permanent collection, temporary exhibits showcase new and emerging artists. The museum gets high marks from recent visitors who loved both the artwork and the architecture.

Runyon Canyon Park Runyon Canyon Park free

Just two blocks from Hollywood Boulevard, Runyon Canyon Park is an often-overlooked urban park that offers some great views. The park boasts several hiking trails and is a popular spot for celebrities to exercise. During your hike, you'll see plenty of palm trees. Atop the canyon, you'll be treated to sweeping views of the San Fernando Valley.

Hikers recommend bring plenty of water and going later in the day since it can get hot on the trails. Some recent visitors lamented the lack of facilities, while others raved about the views.

Paramount Pictures Studios Paramount Pictures Studios

Since 1912, Paramount Pictures Studios has showcased the talents of film's all-time heavyweights, including Mae West, Alfred Hitchcock, Eddie Murphy and Meryl Streep. The notable site has been home to everything from classic television shows like "I Love Lucy" to modern favorites like "Glee" to box-office hits like "Mission: Impossible" and "Titanic." Today, Paramount Pictures is the only remaining film studio in the Hollywood area.

For an authentic Hollywood experience, set aside some time to tour the grounds . On the 2-hour studio tour, a guide will take you around the site's 65 acres in a golf cart, and you'll also be able to hop off and explore sound stages and recognizable studio sets from many current TV shows and movies. Previous visitors praised the friendly and knowledgeable tour guides, although some felt the tours offered at Warner Bros. Studio were better. Also, keep in mind the tours' age restrictions. Studio and VIP tours permit visitors ages 10 and older.

Hollywood Bowl Hollywood Bowl free

If you can catch a gig at the Hollywood Bowl , LA's beautiful amphitheater, don't pass it up. Since its inaugural season in 1922, this unique stage, set in the Hollywood Hills, has entertained thousands of fans and hosted some of the biggest names in music, including Stevie Wonder, Igor Stravinsky, Madonna, Elton John and Tina Turner.

Many travelers praise the Hollywood Bowl, touting everything from the sound quality to the scenic overlook. Several also add that all of the seats offer great views and suggest arriving early with a bottle of wine and a picnic basket.

Walt Disney Concert Hall Walt Disney Concert Hall free

This Frank Gehry-designed concert hall's curvaceous, stainless-steel façade is an imposing structure in downtown LA. The hall helped revive this particular section of downtown, which was once dominated by mundane office buildings and lackluster entertainment options. Now, nightlife and culture burgeon in the area and the concert hall is at the forefront. Music-loving travelers will want to catch one of the Los Angeles Philharmonic's performances here. (For ticket and price information, visit the Los Angeles Philharmonic's website .)

You don't have to invest in concert tickets to experience this performance venue: You can follow  a self-guided audio tour of the exterior and interior (though the actual concert auditorium is off-limits). Past visitors recommend the free hourlong audio tours; self-guided tours are also offered daily from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For a full tour schedule, visit The Music Center's website .

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Hollywood Homes Tours Hollywood Homes Tours

Once you've seen where the stars shop, where they eat, where they surf and where they party, you'll want to see where they live. A variety of Hollywood homes tours provide ample opportunities to spot homes owned by the rich and famous. You probably won't see the celebs themselves, but you can snap pics of the homes affiliated with A-listers like Sandra Bullock, Tom Cruise, Bruno Mars and Halle Berry. Also, expect to see facades that once housed the likes of Lucille Ball, Elvis Presley and Michael Jackson. Along with the stars' abodes, buses usually make stops at the Hollywood Walk of Fame , the Sunset Strip and Rodeo Drive .

Some recent travelers were disappointed because many homes are at the end of long driveways or behind hedges. Be sure to check the weather for the day: Extreme heat or a sudden shower can put a damper on an open-top bus ride.

Rodeo Drive Rodeo Drive free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Stop for lunch at the hidden Mexican steakhouse, The Hideaway, on the subterranean level of the Rodeo Collection. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Immortalized by Julia Roberts' "Pretty Woman" shopping spree, Rodeo Drive is an upscale shopping street in Beverly Hills that features world-class designer stores and small private boutiques. The area is popular with wealthy shoppers, sunglass-wearing celebrities and tourists hoping to see fashion icons.

Hollywood Forever Cemetery Hollywood Forever Cemetery free

As morbid as it may seem, your best chance of spotting a celebrity in LA is at the Hollywood Forever Cemetery. Here, you'll find the final resting places of Rudolph Valentino, Douglas Fairbanks, Judy Garland, Cecil B. DeMille and other stars who once worked at the adjacent Paramount Pictures Studios . Maps detailing the celebrities' gravesites are available at the cemetery's flower shop or on its website . A 2 ½-hour walking tour is also available starting at $25.

Recent visitors described the cemetery's quiet grounds as "peaceful," adding that the grounds are well-maintained. Some recommend doing a walking tour to learn the stories of famous people buried there. The venue also offers cultural events, such as outdoor classic film screenings, concerts and author evenings. Visit their events calendar to find out more.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

You could spend an entire day at this property that includes a research library with 11 million items, an art museum with more than 42,000 pieces and a 130-acre botanical gardens with more than 12 themed gardens. The Huntington opened in 1928 and is a nonprofit that provides humanities scholarships, fellowships, special exhibitions and hosts more than 800,000 visitors a year. Ongoing exhibitions feature items such as Chaucer's "Canterbury Tales" manuscript, replicas of Pacific Electric Railway Company's "red cars," rock slab art in the Japanese Garden, contemporary art and so much more. There are also temporary exhibits that rotate regularly. The Botanical Gardens include themed gardens – such as the California garden, jungle garden, rose garden and Japanese garden – botanical living collections and is the site for botanical conservation and research. Most visitors enjoyed touring the gardens the most and said that the gardens alone can be a full-day excursion.

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is open from Wednesdays to Mondays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Reservations are recommended from Monday to Thursday and required for weekend visits. Weekday admission is $25 for adults, $21 for students, $13 for youth (ages 4 to 11) and children younger than 4 explore free. Weekend rates are slightly higher. Admission is free the first Thursday of every month; you can snag tickets on the final Thursday of the month prior at 9 a.m. PST. Free parking is available. A variety of guided tours and events are offered; dates and prices vary.  View the online calendar for more information. There are restrooms, a gift shop and dining facilities on the property, as well as a limited number of picnic tables. Picnics in the garden are not permitted. For more information, visit the website .

Angeles National Forest Angeles National Forest

In about a half-hour, travelers can trade busy downtown LA for the serenity of nature at the Angeles National Forest. The almost 700,000-acre forest is an easily accessible place for locals and visitors to hike, bike, ski, ride horses, swim, fish and even camp. Encompassing the San Gabriel Mountains, terrain ranges from desert to dense forest. Perhaps one of the most visited sites is Mount San Antonio (nicknamed Mount Baldy), which is the highest peak in the San Gabriel Mountains at 10,064 feet. There you will find a variety of hikes, from moderate to challenging. Recent visitors loved the views and found the range of trail options perfect for different types of hikers.

Visitors to the Angeles National Forest must purchase a National Forest Adventure Pass. It’s $5 for a daily pass or $30 for an annual pass; the pass is good at other national forests in the area. There are visitor and information centers in different areas of the forest, which offer general information, activities and educational events. Visit the forest's website for specific hours and details.

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La Brea Tar Pits La Brea Tar Pits free

If your kids go crazy for dinosaurs – and really, what kid doesn't? – then a visit to La Brea Tar Pits is sure to be the highlight of their trip. Although the pits look like the set of a cheesy PG movie, hot tar has been bubbling from the earth at this spot along Museum Row in the Miracle Mile for about 50,000 years. And from the gooiest part of LA, more than 3.5 million fossils have been discovered. The adjoining museum houses many of the artifacts found at the tar pits; consequently, it is home to one of the largest collections of Ice Age fossils in the world. Recent visitors said the site was very educational and the amount of fossils was impressive.

You can check out the tar pits completely free of charge, but museum tickets start at $15 for adults and $7 for children 3 to 12; reduced entry fees are available for students and seniors. LA County residents get in free Mondays through Fridays from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. All tickets include tours of property facilities like the fossil lab, lake pit and observation pit; some special exhibits will cost extra. Ticket lines can be long, so consider purchasing your ticket online before you arrive. Even if you have to pay to visit, most visitors agree that the exhibits are well worth perusing.

California Science Center California Science Center free

A world of fun and exploration await kids, as well as curious adults, at the California Science Center. In the permanent "Ecosystems" exhibit, museumgoers will learn about everything from islands to rivers to forests across ten different zones via interactive displays. In "Life! Beginning," visitors learn about reproduction, mating and genes. Many recent visitors were impressed with the museum's "Air & Space" section that includes the Space Shuttle Endeavour and the Gemini 11 Capsule. An IMAX theater is also on-site. Recent visitors say the center is wonderful, lots of fun and especially great for kids.

The center is free to visit (including the Endeavour) though special exhibits and IMAX screenings incur a fee. Timed tickets for IMAX and special exhibits are required and can be purchased online . The museum is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Parking costs $15. You can also take the Metro Expo Line to Expo Park/USC Station and walk five minutes to the center. Visit the center's website for more information.

Dodger Stadium Dodger Stadium

Baseball fans should enjoy a visit to Dodger Stadium, which is home to the LA Dodgers and is Major League Baseball's third oldest continually used park. The stadium is carved into Chavez Ravine and overlooks downtown LA to the south and the San Gabriel Mountains to the north, making this ballpark quite unique. If the Dodgers aren't playing when you're in town, you can still see the stadium on a guided tour. Tours of the 56,000-seat stadium last approximately 90 minutes. During the tour, visitors will learn about the stadium's history and may get to go on the field, look at the Dodger Dugout or peek into the Yaamava' Dugout Club (the VIP restaurant and lounge located behind home plate), which houses the team's World Series trophies and various other awards. Additional specialty tours, such as a Jackie Robinson tour, are also offered. Recent tour-goers say the guides are knowledgeable and engaging.

The Dodger Stadium Tour is offered on the hour from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (on game days ) or 3 p.m. (on nongame days). Tickets cost $30 for adults and $25 for kids 14 and younger. Specialty tours are also available for varying fees. Parking is $25 in advance and $30 to $50 at the gate, with no in-and-out privileges and no refunds. Tickets to baseball games are seasonal and prices vary.

Greystone Mansion and Park Greystone Mansion and Park free

Greystone Mansion is one of the largest mansions in Beverly Hills and an important landmark for American cinema. The nearly 13-acre parcel of land was a wedding gift from oil tycoon Edward L. Doheny to his son, Ned, in 1926. Construction on the mansion began in 1927 and took almost three years to complete. Greystone now represents a golden age in American cinema. Many films, including "The Big Lebowski" and "Ghostbusters," and television shows like "General Hospital" and "Gilmore Girls" have been shot on these gothic-inspired grounds.

Visitors can walk around the property and self-guided tours of the inside of the mansion are offered monthly. Many visitors say Greystone Mansion has stunning grounds with picturesque views. Travelers describe the park grounds as spectacular and enjoy learning which of their favorite movies and shows used Greystone as a backdrop.

Venice Beach Venice Beach free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Rent an e-bike at the boardwalk and spend the day riding along "The Strand" (aka the Marvin Braude Bike Trail) to the Santa Monica Pier. Enjoy delicious Mexican dishes at MariaSol, which sits at the end of the pier. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Developed in the early 20th century, Venice Beach is modeled – canals and all – after its  namesake city in Italy . Admittedly, the experiment didn't live up to its Italian inspiration, but the neighborhood has become distinctly Californian, embodying the spirit of the wealthy, the alternative and the just plain bizarre. Rather than towering churches and intimate pizzerias, you'll find canal-side mansions near funky boutiques and restaurants.

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Explore the Arts District in Downtown L.A. Explore the Arts District in Downtown L.A. free

If you're looking for a trendy hot spot, heed the advice of recent visitors and head to the Arts District in Downtown Los Angeles. Formerly an urban artists' colony in the 1970s, the area is now filled with restaurants, cafes and bars serving creative cuisine and craft cocktails. Popular favorites include Angel City Brewery, Bestia, Girl & the Goat and EightyTwo, a bar that features vintage pinball and arcade machines. The neighborhood is also home to art galleries featuring a variety of genres showcasing inspiring art, art shops and art classes. One example is Art Share L.A., a 28,000-square-foot creative art space featuring community art classes, art exhibits and live performances.

According to past visitors, parking in this area can be challenging. Though there is street parking, it's limited. Travelers advise leaving your car in a public parking garage.

Universal Studios Hollywood Universal Studios Hollywood

One of the most popular attractions in the Los Angeles area, Universal Studios Hollywood features rides and amusements based on some of the most popular scenes and characters from film and television. You can take the tram Studio Tour past the creepy Bates Motel from "Psycho" and get caught up in a high-speed chase with the "Fast & Furious" cast. Kids can shake hands with cartoon favorites like The Minions and Scooby-Doo. Of course, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is another huge hit, as is Jurassic World – The Ride. SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, a new attraction opened in 2023, features a Super Mario-themed ride, interactive games, a restaurant and shop.

If thrills are your thing, there are plenty of hair-raising coasters and rides. On Transformers: The Ride-3D, riders join Optimus Prime in his battle against the Decepticons; meanwhile, youngsters will love the 3D ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem (complete with a Minion dance party).

Abbot Kinney Boulevard Abbot Kinney Boulevard free

Shoppers will love this retail mecca that stretches for a mile from Washington Boulevard to Main Street. Located a half-mile inland from Venice Beach , the boulevard features popular chain stores, such as Lululemon, Birkenstock and Warby Parker, as well as local boutique shops, including Ananda Venice, Satine and The Stronghold. In between shopping, stop for a bite to eat at The Butcher's Daughter, Plant Food + Wine or Gjelina. Or, plan your visit for the first Friday of every month, when starting at 5 p.m. dozens of food trucks serve up casual craft meals along the street.

Recent visitors suggested you stroll along Abbot Kinney Boulevard if you're in the Venice Beach area, praising its hip collection of boutiques and restaurants. In addition to the shops and eateries, reviewers also admired the colorful murals and street art. 

Grand Central Market Grand Central Market free

U.S. News Insider Tip: For something fun and unique near the market, check out the Angels Flight Railway. Built in 1901, the funicular takes passengers between Hill Street and Grand Avenue on Bunker Hill. One-way tickets cost $1. – Sharael Kolberg, Contributor, Travel

Grand Central Market, or foodie heaven according to visitors, is located in downtown Los Angeles by the Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad . The venue features high ceilings and an open layout, with food vendor stalls offering different cuisines that represent cultures from the Los Angeles area and beyond. The market has been in operation since 1917 and serves everything from coffee and pressed juices to deli fare, egg sandwiches, falafel, tacos and chow mein.

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Whether you're interested in the deep sea, dinosaurs, insects or gems and minerals, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County offers hours of exploration of all things related to natural history. Ongoing exhibitions include the impressive Dinosaur Hall (where you can view more than 300 fossils and see 20 life-sized dinosaur skeletons), Nature Lab, Hall of Birds and Visible Vault, which houses artifacts from Aztec, Maya and Inca civilizations. Visitors said that the museum is great for all ages, with the Dinosaur Hall being the most popular attraction. There are also special exhibitions that are on display for a limited time. Kids will love the Dinosaurs Encounters Show that features juvenile dinosaur puppets. The shows are offered Thursdays and Fridays at 10:30 and 11:30 a.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tickets are $6 per person.

Guests can also explore the nature gardens with more than 600 varieties of plants and a plethora of garden wildlife. Free guided tours are available daily. If you want to dive deeper into natural history, special programs are available for children, adults and families. Check the events calendar online for more info.

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Battleship USS Iowa Museum Battleship USS Iowa Museum

A visit to the iconic Battleship USS Iowa Museum includes access to both interior and exterior areas on seven decks. The self-guided tour lets visitors see what life was like on the ship. You'll also view the officer's wardroom, senior officer's cabins, admirals bridge, navigation bridge and crew's quarters. Recent visitors enjoyed the multiple exhibits along the route that tell the story of the Battleship USS Iowa, as well as the U.S. Navy, through artifacts, photographs, artwork and equipment. Kids can participate in the "Vicky the Dog" scavenger hunt to get a more in-depth look at the ship through the eyes of its canine mascot.

The General Access pass is valid for two hours and costs $29.95 for adults, $21.95 for kids 3 to 11 and are free for kids 2 and younger. For an additional fee, visitors can upgrade to a themed guided tour, such as the Gun Tour or Engineering Tour. Past visitors said it is worth paying extra for a guided tour. They also enjoyed their visits overall. While visiting the ship, check out the waterfront views, grab a snack at Vicky's Doghouse Café and pick up a souvenir at the Ship's Store. The ship is open daily at 10 a.m. and closes around 4 p.m. (or whenever the final guided tour ends). Parking is available, with the first hour free and $2 each hour after that, with a maximum of $20 a day.

Shop along Olvera Street Shop along Olvera Street free

Stroll this historic street in Downtown Los Angeles for authentic Mexican culture, music and cuisine. Along the block-long, brick-lined street, you'll find strolling mariachi bands, taco shops, Aztec and Mexican folkloric dancers and vendors selling handcrafted souvenirs, such as pottery, leather goods and traditional clothing. The street also hosts various traditional events throughout the year, including the Blessing of the Animals (Saturday before Easter), Cinco de Mayo, Fiestas Patrias (Mexican Independence Day), Dia de los Muertos and Las Posadas.

This Mexican marketplace is part of the El Pueblo Historic Park, the "birthplace of LA," which also includes historic sites, such as Avila Adobe (LA's oldest house), Pico House and the America Tropical Interpretive Center. 

L.A. Live L.A. Live

L.A. Live is the hub of entertainment in Downtown Los Angeles. It's features the Crypto.com Arena, home of the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers basketball teams, the Los Angeles Kings hockey team, as well as the Los Angeles Sparks women's basketball team. It's also where music fans attend world-class concerts by some of the biggest names in the industry. Other entertainment includes the interactive GRAMMY Museum, a Lucky Strike bowling alley and a Regal movie theater, as well as smaller event venues like the Microsoft Theater, The Novo and The Conga Room.

There are more than a dozen eateries to choose from, including Yard House and Katsuya. After a night of entertainment, stay over at the JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE or The Ritz-Carlton, Los Angeles.

Petersen Automotive Museum Petersen Automotive Museum

Car enthusiasts will be thrilled with a visit to the Petersen Automotive Museum as it houses a range of impressive cars, from high performance to historic. In the permanent galleries, travelers can try an exhilarating racing simulator, see the “Commutercycle” from the HBO documentary "The Lady and the Dale" and participate in hands-on activities with a Disney "Cars" theme. Featured exhibitions rotate frequently. There are an additional 250 cars that are stored in The Vault. The museum also hosts a variety of events, from exhibition openings to hands-on workshops. Visit its online calendar for more info.

Admission is $21 for adults, $13 for youth ages 12 to 17 and $11 for kids 4 to 11. There is an additional $27 fee for people 12 and older to tour The Vault (children 4 to 11 will pay an extra $10); many visitors say it's worth the fee, but warn that it could take you a half-day to explore. Keep in mind children younger than 4 cannot enter the museum nor the vault. If you're a true car fanatic, consider taking the guided Vault and Workshop tour to see both the Vault and the museum's restoration area. Tickets for this tour are limited and run on Saturdays only. Fees are $150 for individuals 4 and older.

Warner Bros. Studio Warner Bros. Studio

Located in Burbank, California – a city that sits just 5 miles north of Hollywood – Warner Bros. Studio gives visitors a close-up look at iconic movie and TV sets and props, such as the original Batmobiles, costumes from the "Harry Potter" movies and a replica of the cafe featured in "Friends." Travelers will also drive around the studio's 110-acre backlot, where 30 soundstages are used for producing shows like "Young Sheldon," "Bob Hearts Abishola," and "The Ellen DeGeneres Show."

Previous visitors loved exploring this property and appreciated their "fun and knowledgeable" tour guides. Additionally, many enjoyed getting out of their golf carts to go inside a working set and other buildings used for filming, citing this as the main reason to tour this studio instead of others like Paramount Pictures Studios . But keep in mind, children 7 and younger are not permitted on any tour.

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Home » North America » Los Angeles

37 BEST Places to Visit in Los Angeles (2024)

What can you say about Los Angeles? It’s the city of angels, known just as much for its tourist vibe as it is for its entertainment and its close connections with the television and media industry. For anyone who’s interested in relaxing in the sun while they watch for celebrities or taking photos at famous movie sites, this is the place to come.

But Los Angeles doesn’t usually appeal to every type of traveler. If you’re not interested in seeing celebrities’ gates or immersing yourself in a culture that seems devoted to appearances and little more, this destination can seem like one to avoid. However, despite the advertisements, there is more to this city than meets the eye. And it’s definitely a place worth visiting if you’re interested in some fun nights out, more entertainment options then you could ever see, and some amazing food.

To help you find the places in Los Angeles that appeal to you, we’ve created this easy guide to this flashy city.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Los Angeles:

These are the best places to visit in los angeles, faq on the best places to visit in los angeles, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in los angeles.

Hollywood, California is a top destination for tourists and our recommendation for where to stay in Los Angeles for the first time.

• Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Tickle your taste buds with a famous In-N-Out burger
• Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships, a quirky and interesting museum

And if you need more inspiration on where to stay in Los Angeles, consider checking out one of the best vacation rentals in the city.

Los Angeles is home not only to many famous tourist attractions (and the hopes and dreams of aspiring young performers hoping to catch their big break), but also an immense metropolis of distinct neighbourhoods that appear to be mini-cities within themselves. Get the low down on where to stay in Los Angeles before delving into the magic below.

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#1 – Venice Beach – One of the more unique places to visit in Los Angeles!

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• A place to see a side of Los Angeles that has nothing to do with the movies.
• Soak up the rays and relax.
• Lots of great food options in the area.

Why it’s so awesome : If you get sick of the polished perfection of Hollywood then Venice Beach is another gem of visiting Los Angeles . This is an area that, despite the rush of tourists, holds onto its bohemian vibe and remains stubbornly eccentric. Some would even call it a little crazy. No matter who you are or what you like, this place will welcome you and offer people and attractions that suit your preferences.

What to do there : One of the best things to do in this area is people-watch, and you’ll find no shortage of fascinating and unusual people on the boardwalk. You’ll see everything from bodybuilders to skaters and everything in between. When or if you get sick of that, grab lunch at one of the many great restaurants or cafes in the area. Also, if you like to read then make sure you check out Small World Books for a kooky selection.

#2 – Rodeo Drive – A great place in Los Angeles if you love to shop!

• Made famous in some of the most popular movies and TV shows of all time.
• A great place for designer labels.
• The people watching in this area is amazing.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’ve seen the movie Pretty Woman , then you’ve seen Rodeo Drive. This is the shopping center of Los Angeles for people who enjoy designer everything and high-class, expensive boutiques. Just walking along this street can make you feel as if you’re on the set of a movie. It’s also located in Beverly Hills, which is one of the safest places in LA !

What to do there : Obviously you could drop a lot of cash in this area if you have it spare. You’ll find every prominent label in existence in this street, and none of them are cheap. But if you don’t have the money or any interest in buying designer clothes then it’s great to just window shop in this area. Also, if you enjoy architecture, make sure you check out the nearby Anderson Court, a shopping mall that was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

With a Los Angeles City Pass , you can experience the best of Los Angeles at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Universal Studios Hollywood

• A place where movie lovers can indulge their hobby.
• Great for photographers who want that iconic shot of Los Angeles!
• Kids will love the rides and other attractions.

Why it’s so awesome : Universal Studios in Hollywood isn’t technically a studio for actors anymore, instead, it’s a theme park that celebrates everything to do with the movies. This is the place to come if you love Harry Potter , the Fast and the Furious or any other Universal Studio movie and want to walk in the footsteps of the stars. And it isn’t just for kids either. Apart from rides and shows, they also have bars and restaurants as well as rides that are based on shows that are too scary for kids!

What to do there : There’s no shortage of things to do at Universal . This is a place to take the kids, or a handful of your friends, and just be a child again. Check out the Walking Dead Attraction, watch a movie at the cinema, drink butterbeer at the Harry Potter-themed pub and go on all the rides. And if you’re looking for a little more of a thrill, watch the Water World Show, or try the Revenge of the Mummy ride for some real scares.

#4 – The Broad – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Los Angeles

• A new museum that’s generating a lot of buzz.
• Some truly spectacular displays of light and technology.
• Free admission!

Why it’s so awesome: This is a contemporary art museum with a difference. Not only is it free to get into, which makes it a great place to offset your spending in other places in Los Angeles, the displays are also groundbreaking. Particularly popular are the Infinity Mirrored Rooms, designed by Yayoi Kusama. These are mirrored rooms that reflect LED lights that go on forever, just as they do in space. The display is so popular that there’s usually a wait of hours to get in!

What to do there : Make sure you see the Infinity Mirrored Rooms but don’t miss the other displays either. The museum has several permanent displays as well as rotating ones. So check out what’s on before you go so you know what the must-sees are.

#5 – The Museum of Jurassic Technology – One of the more unique places to visit in Los Angeles!

• A fun and educational place.
• A pseudo-scientific nook in the center of the city.
• If you enjoy things that are quirky, you’ll enjoy a trip to this museum.

Why it’s so awesome : This museum mixes fact with fiction in a way that leaves you wondering which is which. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with the movie, instead, it focuses on scientific wonders both real and imagined. It’s a kooky little place and one that’s a nice break from the movie-obsessed city, so make sure you add it to your Los Angeles itinerary!

What to do there : This is a place to enjoy the oddities and try to work out what’s real and what’s not. There are a lot of weird things in this museum, from minuscule sculptures to bats that can fly through walls, and spending some time here is an exercise in getting your mind bent into a new shape!

#6 – Griffith Observatory

• Get in touch with some real stars while you’re in the city!
• A slightly strange observatory, because the light of the city means you can’t actually see much through the telescope.
• It has several fascinating and educational displays.

Why it’s so awesome : Los Angeles’ light pollution means that you can’t see any stars from the city, which might make an observatory seem a little redundant. However, there’s more than just a telescope at this place. You could easily spend a few hours here exploring the relationship between man and the rest of the universe through the exhibitions, so it’s well worth taking that time to just look around.

What to do there : While you’re there, make sure that you check out the Hall of the Eye and the Hall of the Sky displays. These two displays are connected and are fascinating enough that you probably won’t realize you’re actually learning more about man’s connection to the universe as you watch!

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#7- The Getty

• Great for lovers of fine art.
• One of the best collections of artwork in the world.
• There is art from almost every period in history, so you’ll definitely find something you like.

Why it’s so awesome : You wouldn’t think that Los Angeles would be home to one of the finest art collections in the world and yet the Getty contains just that. You’ll find art by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh as well as a very impressive collection of amazing photographs taken by some of the biggest names in this field.

What to do there : This is the type of collection that you need to take your time with. Make sure you look for your favorite artists but be open to new names as well. That’s the great things about places like this, they open your mind to all kinds of new possibilities.

#8 – The Hollywood Walk of Fame

• Find handprints left by today’s celebrities and old favorites too.
• A great place to take photos.
• One of the most iconic places in Los Angeles.

Why it’s so awesome : Everyone has heard about the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where more than 2,500 celebrities have their names and handprints immortalized in concrete. If you’re a film fanatic, or just want to take a photo next to your favorite star’s handprint, this is a great place to spend a little time.

What to do there: Browse the names. The Walk of Fame is larger than you might think and when you walk along with it, you’ll probably find a few names you hadn’t expected. This iconic spot isn’t as glitzy as it looks in the movies or on awards nights, but it’s well worth a look anyway.

#9 – Walt Disney Concert Hall

• Home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
• A spiky, metal covered building that’s impressive in its own right.
• There are over 250 concerts here a year.

Why it’s so awesome : If you enjoy music and architecture then this venue combines the two interests. The building itself was designed by Frank Gehry and is a spiky, strangely attractive building that juts into the air at seemingly random angles. But even if architecture isn’t your thing, the music here will make up for it. The acoustics are amazing, and the concerts are absolutely first-rate too.

What to do there : Make sure you take a photograph with this building in the background because it would make a quirky and interesting shot. Also, check the local programs to see what concerts are on while you’re in the city. The best of the best play here, and there’s nothing like seeing a great concert in a place that’s designed to get the most from the music.

#10 – TCL Chinese Theater – Cool place to see in Los Angeles with friends!

• A great place to get some photos.
• The building has welcomed some of the world’s biggest stars and it will welcome you too!
• You can see a movie and see where the stars have sat.

Why it’s so awesome : This is the prime spot for movie premiers in Los Angeles, which means that the biggest stars in the world have spent time in this theater. But if this second-hand celebrity encounter isn’t enough, the theater itself is still worth seeing. Its Chinese-style pagodas and temples are both iconic and striking and it’s an important symbol of America’s celebrity culture.

What to do there : You have to buy a ticket to see the inside of the theater but it’s free to just explore the courtyard. This building has become a symbol of celebrity culture and glamor because of its proximity to the Walk of Fame so you can get some great photos while you’re there, so make sure that you bring your camera with you . It’s worth buying a ticket to see a movie though if only so you can say that you’ve watched a movie in the same theater that’s held the world’s biggest stars.

#11 – Try To Escape From The Escape Game

Why it’s so awesome :If you are after something challenging, immersive but totally then then the LA Escape Game may be just what you are looking for. The Escape Game LA features a variety of different rooms which participants (that’s you and your crew) must try to escape from by working as a team, solving clues and completing puzzles.

What to do there : All of their games are designed to be suitable for everybody, from first-time players to experienced escapologists. No matter which one you decide to play, you’re sure to have an absolute blast!

#12 – Santa Monica Pier

• A great place to spend a sunny day eating junk food and riding a Ferris Wheel next to the ocean.
• If you like to people watch, this is a prime location for it.
• In the afternoon, the sunsets are spectacular from this location.

Why it’s so awesome : Sometimes it’s nice to remember that even in Los Angeles, there are places that offer ordinary fun. It isn’t all celebrities and high-end boutiques; the Santa Monica Pier offers the kind of fun that’s best enjoyed with friends or family. There’s a Ferris wheel, cotton candy, and amazing sunsets to enjoy at this location. So, take an afternoon and get reacquainted with things that were probably part of your childhood. It is one of the best day trips to take from LA .

What to do there : This is the place for old school fair activities. Ride the Ferris wheel and the roller coaster before you tuck in to typical fair food such as cotton candy and hot dogs. And stay late in the day because the sight of the sun setting over the Pacific is something that everyone should see at least once.

#12 – Farmers Market

• There’s a real sense of community and connection here that you’ll really enjoy.
• Great food and drink options.
• A prime spot for people watching.

Why it’s so awesome: The Farmers Market was founded in 1934 by a collective of farmers and nothing much has changed since that time. The market is held at 3rd and Fairfax, and it’s where all the locals go to enjoy good food, buy fresh goods, and enjoy a bit of community. There are now more than 85 shops at the market, and you’ll find everything from a barbeque place to a kebab stand there.

What to do there : All you need to do while you’re in this area is eat, drink and watch the people. This area has a laidback vibe that seems to conflict with the rest of the city. But this vibe has also contributed to the strong sense of community that the market has created. So just take your time and relax in the open-air bazaar, explore the many stores, and if you want to do some celebrity spotting afterwards then head down to The Grove shopping area nearby, where stars go to pick up the milk.

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#13 – Disneyland Park – Awesome place to visit in Los Angeles with kids!

• It’s Disneyland!
• Great for kids and adults who remember their childhood.
• You’ll get some amazing photos here and perhaps even see some favorite characters!

Why it’s so awesome : What isn’t awesome about Disneyland? It’s a place that’s dedicated to stories, to dreams, and to letting your imagination run wild. Of course, it’s also dedicated to outrageous prices, crowds, and heat, but you can ignore that for one day to see some of your favorite Disney characters walking around.

What to do there: There’s no end of things to do here with seven lands that are all dedicated to different themes and Disney cartoons. Make sure you try out rides like the epic Indiana Jones Adventure and the Grizzly River Run if you like a bit of a thrill. And if you’re not one for rides, then just stroll down Main Street USA. This is one of the main streets in Disneyland and there’s always something going on there from parades to fireworks and visiting Disney characters. Make sure you keep your camera at the ready!

#14 – Hollywood Bowl

• Made famous in movies and so much bigger in reality!
• Showcases everything from rock bands to the Philharmonic.
• Best of all, it’s completely casual, so take some food and a bottle of wine and enjoy!

Why it’s so awesome : This is a place where you can listen to music while you’re outside under the night sky. The venue plays host to a range of musical styles which are great on their own, but the real draw is the relaxed vibe. Chances are that cramming together in the bleachers and sharing your food with the people next to you will net you some new friends! And that’s what places like this are all about.

What to do there : While you’re in the city you absolutely must see a show at the Hollywood Bowl. And it doesn’t really matter which one either. The whole point of this place is to listen to music while you’re under the night sky. And this goal makes for a really relaxed atmosphere, so take your food and drink and share it with the people sitting next to you to make some new friends.

#15 – Griffith Park – One of the nicer places in Los Angeles to sightsee!

• A nice natural area where you can walk outside of the busyness of the city.
• There are a lot of different routes which will take you to various iconic spots in the city.
• If you don’t feel like walking, you can always go on horseback!

Why it’s so awesome : Chances are you’ll be getting around by car and by public transport while you’re in Los Angeles and sometimes there’s nothing better than taking a break from that and stretching your legs. And when you can do that in a place with panoramic and iconic views of the city, all the better!

What to do there : This park is extremely accessible and popular amongst locals and tourists alike. If you enjoy walking you can make it all the way up Mount Hollywood and be treated to views of the Los Angeles basin and the Hollywood sign. And if you’re a little more adventurous, you can hire a horse at the nearby private stables and take the specially marked trails to the same spots.

#16 – Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

• Has exhibits ranging from the start of art history to the present day.
• A great place for art lovers to spend some time.
• Educational and interesting.

Why it’s so awesome : This art museum has been modernizing of late, with more contemporary displays than ever before. You can see artwork from the ancient past as well as these more modern pieces and it will give you an education on art that you will never forget.

What to do there: This is a peaceful, enlightening place to spend an afternoon. Wander the halls and see through the eyes of some of the greatest artists who have ever lived. With that kind of inspiration, maybe you’ll get inspired to create something yourself!

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#17 – The Museum of Death – Quite the quirky place in Los Angeles!

• A spooky look at the past.
• It’s ideal for people who like to walk a little more on the macabre side.
• Good for anyone who’s interested in true crime.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum doesn’t shy away from the spookiest parts of humanity. It’s devoted entirely to the memorabilia left behind by some of the most infamous serial killers in history and other exhibits to do with murder and death. This is the place where you can look at some of history’s most famous and sadistic instruments of death and be reminded of just how precious life is.

What to do there : If you’ve ever been morbidly curious about crime scene photos or the most famous serial killers in history, you’ll learn about them here. Dahmer, the Manson Murders and original photos from the Dahlia Murders all have a place here. Basically, it’s a museum that will make you thoroughly creeped out about the people all around you.

#18 – The Underground Tunnels of Los Angeles – One of the most underrated places to see in Los Angeles

• Left behind from the days of Prohibition.
• A slightly creepy and sobering look at the past.
• A chance to get a look at a side of Los Angeles that most people never see.

Why it’s so awesome : These tunnels were once service tunnels, but during the days of Prohibition they became a way to transport liquor to speakeasies all around the city. During these long-ago days, the Major’s office ran the show, and people from all walks of life wandered around drinking below the law-abiding portion of the city.

What to do there : It’s an adventure in itself to find these tunnels. You need to go behind the Hall of Records on Temple Street where there’s an almost hidden elevator. The passages below are filled with strange street art, and gated where some areas have become unstable over the years. So remember to stay safe , take some friends with you, avoid the blocked-off areas, and just explore.

#19 – The Old Zoo Picnic Area

• A depressing look at how society treats animals.
• Educational and even important, but not an enjoyable lesson.

Why it’s so awesome : Modern zoos can sometimes be good places where the focus is on education and protecting endangered animals. But this isn’t always the case, and, in the past, it was hardly ever the case. The Old Zoo Picnic Area is a stark reminder of that reality. This zoo was closed in 1966 but some of the cages still remain, a reminder of a past that shouldn’t be forgotten.

What to do there : This is now a picnic area with benches and grills where you can hang out with your friends and have a nice meal. But don’t forget to at least acknowledge the other side of this place. There’s a trail that will take you up from the caves and around to more of the abandoned cages so you can experience just what it was like to be on the other side of the bars.

#20 – Necromance

• The best place to find souvenirs that are a little different than normal.
• Best for people who have a strong stomach.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’re tired of the usual souvenirs then check out this shop. Here you’ll find a wide range of antiques and oddities from medical instruments to stuffed animals. All of the goods in this shop are antiques and you could easily spend an hour or so looking at all the strangeness people have made through the ages!

What to do there : Make sure you buy something to take home. You obviously don’t have to choose something macabre like a Victorian bone saw, but there’s a wide range of goods available, so there will be something that will appeal to you or to someone you know!

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#21 – Hollywood Forever Cemetery

• Surrounded by lush, natural surroundings that are really beautiful considering what they contain.
• In the summer, they have film screenings in the park.
• Lots of olden day stars such as Estelle Getty and Johnny Ramone were laid to rest here.

Why it’s so awesome : This place is a slightly macabre look at celebrity culture and a reminder that nothing lasts forever. Even if you don’t like this lesson, the parks are truly beautiful and are listed on the National Register of Historic Sites, so they’re really worth seeing.

What to do there : If you like classic Hollywood films then make sure you attend one of the summer movie screenings and watch the action projected on the wall of a mausoleum! Just bring a blanket and some food and you can lie out under the stars and enjoy some classic cinema very close to where the stars of it could be buried. Apart from that, the cemetery is home to lots of stunning statues and mausoleums. So, if you’re interested in that kind of artwork then you’ll find lots of interesting examples when you walk around this site.

#22 – Phantasma Gloria – One of the more unique places to visit in Los Angeles!

• If you enjoy unusual art, then you’ll love this!
• By appointment only.

Why it’s so awesome : This is a sculpture that’s designed to capture the light in all its glory. Over 24 feet tall and 50 feet long, the artist has created this web on his property and eventually it will wrap all the way around his yard. It’s made of colored glass, wire, and colored water and will only get bigger over time!

What to do there : This sculpture is a marvel of engineering and inventiveness. It’s open by appointment only on Saturdays and Sundays between 10 and 4, when the sun hits it just right. While you’re there, look closely at the twists of wire and glass, you’ll see dolphins and other shapes within the carefully crafted sculpture and start to understand the intricacy of the artist’s vision.

#23 – Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels – One of the most religious places to see in Los Angeles

• An architecturally unique postmodern building.
• The building is extremely elaborate, with the doors alone priced at over 3 million dollars.
• The lower level contains the relics of an early Roman saint

Why it’s so awesome : This church is spectacular, and for the amount of money spent on its construction it really should be. The archbishop at the time wanted to make a statement with the Cathedral and spared absolutely no expense on its construction. He spent 5 million dollars on a table, 3 million on a single set of doors, and 2 million for the wooden ambo and it shows. The result is an opulent display that really draws attention.

What to do there : If you’re Catholic then this Cathedral would hold great significance. The lower level houses a crypt with more than 6000 church officials, Gregory Peck, and the relics left behind by the early Roman martyr Saint Vibiana. But even if you aren’t Catholic, it’s worth visiting the site just to take in the opulence and rich furnishings of this fortress-like construction.

#24 – Ennis House

• Made famous in movies and TV shows like  Haunted House ,  Blade Runner,  and  Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
• An architectural gem.
• A weird and quirky piece of construction that has to be seen to be believed.

Why it’s so awesome: The Ennis House was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the early 1920s and is a marvel of engineering and architecture. It was restored in the 1970s after rain and earthquake damage and was designated a Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument in 1976.

What to do there : Visitors are only allowed into the building on rare occasions so make sure you keep your eyes open during your trip to see if there’s a chance you’ll be able to go inside. But even if you can’t, the exterior of the house is stunning on its own, and if you’re a fan of Buffy the Vampire Slayer , you’ll probably recognize the building as it was used during the iconic TV show!

#25 – Garden of Oz

• A fantastic place to get a quirky and unique photo op!
• A private garden that’s been turned into a showcase of color and magic.

Why it’s so awesome : This is a private garden in the Hollywood Hills that the owner has turned into a fantastical and whimsical space! Instead of concrete and dirt flower beds, you’ll find mosaics, thrones and fantastical creatures all over this area. It features hundreds of plants, a yellow brick road, and whimsical displays that bring to mind Munchkin land from the iconic movie.

There are also numerous thrones throughout the area, each of them dedicated to someone who’s important to the artist’s life. To that end, there’s a throne for Rosa Parks, the Dalai Lama, Elvis Presley and a friend of the artist who survived the Hiroshima bombing.

What to do there : This garden is on private property and the owner doesn’t give tours, though the neighborhood children apparently all have keys so they can play in the space. But if you’re interested, you can easily see most of the garden from the street and take in the whimsical beauty of the eclectic space.

#26 – Velaslavasay Panorama

• A stunning reminder of the past.
• This is 3D art with a difference!

Why it’s so awesome : If you want to see something truly unique then this is where to come. In the 1700s and 1800s, a new form of media was invented known as panoramic paintings. This was a form of 3D media that fell out of flavor when film and photos came along. Enormous paintings were displayed in circular rooms or on moving rollers to creating a moving landscape for the audience. And this venue is bringing back this old art form, with 360-degree displays that include light and sound.

What to do there : The display at this venue changes frequently so find out what’s on and go to see it. The shows include soundtracks as well as lights to create a truly 3-dimensional experience that has to be seen to be believed. A beautiful reminder of an old art form that deserves a place in today’s art world!

#27 – The Hollywood Sign

• Quite possibly the most famous site in Los Angeles.
• A great opportunity for a photo op.
• Built as a temporary advertisement that has stood the test of time!

Why it’s so awesome : Built-in 1923, the Hollywood sign was meant to last eight months but has become one of the most iconic sights in the city! You can see the sign in countless movies, TV shows, and celebrity photos and you really should own your picture of the sign too!

What to do there : It’s a fair hike up to the sign, around 45 minutes depending on how fast you go, and once you’re up there don’t try to climb or touch the fence that protects the site. Just take photos up there and take in the views. From this high-up landmark, you can see all of downtown Los Angeles, the Santa Ana Mountains and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. And you don’t have to stop at the sign either. If you want even better views, there are steps that go higher that will let you see even further and take in even more of the city.

#28 – Downtown – An awesome place to visit in Los Angeles for half a day!

• A perfect place to take a walking tour of Los Angeles’ architecture.
• You can do a walking tour on your own or there are a number of organized tours available.
• Lots of chances for pictures.

Why it’s so awesome : Los Angeles is a busy, exciting city and the best way to see it is on foot. By taking a walking tour on your own or with a group through the Downtown area you’ll be able to see some cool architecture and buildings that you recognize from the sets of movies and TV shows!

What to do there : Take lots of pictures while you’re wandering around. Los Angeles’s buildings range from Art Deco style to historic theaters and the mix is both interesting and indicative of the city’s history. If you do take an organized tour, make sure you book early as they’re popular, but you’ll also be fine walking around on your own. If you’re a fan of nightlife, then Downtown LA is also your best bet to find a hostel where you can stay close to all the fun.

#29 – Runyon Canyon Park – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Los Angeles

• An often-overlooked slice of nature in the city.
• A great place to get away from the city and breathe in the cleaner air.
• If you enjoy walking, hiking or running then there’s plenty of room here to really stretch out.

Why it’s so awesome : Green spaces in the middle of concrete and stone jungles are like gems in cities like Los Angles and this park is perfectly positioned to give you a break from the rush if you need it. It’s seldom visited by tourists which makes it the perfect place to have a rest before you dive back into the high-tech busyness of the city.

What to do there: There are some great views throughout the canyon. You can see the San Fernando Valley and the Pacific Ocean from selected spots as well as the Hollywood sign. This is a popular spot for the locals to exercise, so while you’re doing some hiking you might just see a celebrity keeping their world-famous body in shape too!

#30 – Peterson Automotive Museum

• A quirky, interesting building that looks great in photos.
• For car lovers of all kinds.
• Includes historical information as well as displays of famous movie cars!

Why it’s so awesome : This strange-looking building is located on the Miracle Mile, which was the first commercial development in the city that was designed for the benefit of drivers. And this museum celebrates that history in fine style. Apart from the historical information you’ll learn here, you’ll also get to see displays of some of the world’s most amazing cars, including the Batmobile!

What to do there : What else? Look at cars! You’ll be able to learn about the industrial process as it is today and as it was in the past and see an entire showroom dedicated to luxury vintage vehicles. If you’re a car buff, this will probably be your version of heaven. And even if you don’t like cars you can explore the driving simulation stations and augmented reality scavenger hunt experience.

#31 – La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

• A slightly quirky but still fascinating place.
• Another iconic location in Los Angeles.
• You’ll get some great photos here.
• Great for kids.

Why it’s so awesome : If your kids love dinosaurs, and what kids don’t, then they’ll love this museum. These tar pits have been bubbling for hundreds of thousands of years and more than a million animal bones have been found in their depths. And a lot of them are on display in the museum for your kids to marvel at.

What to do there : The tar pits are free, so check them out and take photos with your group or kids to mark the occasion. Then, if you’re interested in learning more, make sure you check out the attached museum to explore the creatures whose bones were preserved in the bubbling mess.

#32 – Zuma Beach

• Improve your tan and soak in the vibe of exclusivity.
• The activities here are first-rate so if you enjoy surfing or swimming, make sure you do it here.
• Great for kids and adults, with lots of facilities and lifeguards to make the day comfortable and safe.

Why it’s so awesome : This is Malibu, where everyone is beautiful and movie sets are everywhere and you can explore the same beaches you’ve probably seen in countless movies and on TV shows. Zuma Beach is a great place to explore that natural beauty and exclusive vibe, and it’s considered one of the best beaches in Los Angeles too.

What to do there: This is a beach where you should spend some time just people watching. But when you get sick of that, it’s a great place for activities too. The water is very clean, the waves are great for surfing and there are a lot of shops around where you can get a snack when you get tired of the sun. All in all, this beach makes for a great day in the sun!

#33 – Sunset Boulevard – A great place to visit in Los Angeles at night

• Don’t you want to get a photo on this iconic street?
• Made famous in some of history’s greatest movies.
• A beautiful, palm-lined street that still has great aesthetic appeal.

Why it’s so awesome : If you haven’t seen this street in movies then you probably never go to the theater. This street actually had a movie named after it, which is why people line up to take their picture under the street sign. And even if you’re not interested in that, the street is known for its nightlife and is lined with classic music venues where you can listen to some great tunes while you have a drink.

What to do there: Go there during the day to take your pictures in the sunlit streets and under the sign but also make sure you go there at night. Some of the bars and clubs here are legendary for their musical talent, including the Roxy Theater and the Rainbow Bar and Grill, so make sure you check them out.

#34 – Third Street Promenade

• Get some eclectic souvenirs and other goods here.
• An opening air shopping area with all the popular shops as well as some stranger options.
• Great restaurants in this area.

Why it’s so awesome : If you want to do some shopping in a slightly less touristy place then this shopping center is a good choice. You’ll find all your favorite shops here as well as some more unusual choices such as a toy shop obsessed with puzzles and a rare books shop.

What to do there: Visit your favorite shops while they’re there and available and see if you can get some bargains. Make sure that you have lunch while you’re in the area too, as the restaurants here are the best in the city. But it’s the promenade’s atmosphere that’s the most interesting, with street performers and a noisy, busy atmosphere that’s set up for anyone who wants to people watch.

#35 – Warner Brothers Studios

• A must see when you’re in Los Angeles.
• Home to hit shows and some of the biggest movies.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want to see iconic movie and TV sets and props then you’ll experience all that and more at this landmark venue. The Batmobile, Harry Potter props and shows like The Big Bang Theory and Ellen DeGeneres all have a home here and you’ll get to experience them all!

What to do there : This studio is located 5 miles north of Hollywood and is an easy trip from the city when you have a free afternoon. You can wander the grounds and get a tour guide to show you around. And unlike some other studio tours, when you visit this location you can even walk around working sets!

#36 – Greystone Mansion and Park – A nice quiet place to see in Los Angeles

• A relic from the golden age of Hollywood.
• One of the largest mansions in Los Angeles.
• Shows like  Gilmore Girls ,  Ghostbusters  and  General Hospital  were all shot on these grounds.
• Lots of photo ops.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’ve watched TV in the last ten years then you’ve probably seen shots of this mansion even if you didn’t know where it was at the time. Despite its popularity in the cinema and on TV, this is actually a neglected landmark that’s a quiet respite from the city. So if you’re looking for a little break in a beautiful garden with a koi pond, flowers, and fountains, then this is the place you’re looking for.

What to do there : You can’t go into the mansion, but the grounds are open to visitors. Make sure you have a good walk around and see if you recognize any areas from your favorite shows and take a photo to remember the moment. Apart from that, just enjoy the serenity and beauty of the gardens.

#37 – Paramount Pictures Studios

• The last movie studio still in Los Angeles.
• This studio has showcased some of the world’s best starts.
• Lots of photo ops here!

Why it’s so awesome : If you like movies then taking a tour around a place that makes them is an incredible treat. Some of the set designs from this studio’s most popular shows are still in place so you can walk into the scene and actually experience a part of the movie from the inside. As an added bonus, there are several different types of tours. So, if you like to walk, take the walking tour. And if you’re a little more restricted in what you can do or want to do, the golf cart tours are probably right for you.

What to do there : You can take a two-hour tour around the studio during which you’ll actually get to look at some incredibly famous sets all from the comfort of a golf cart. You can see the set of I Love Lucy , Titanic , or even Mission: Impossible . There’s also an After Dark tour for adults only where you’ll get to see some of the sets that aren’t really suitable for children.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Los Angeles

What are the best places to visit in LA at night?

For some epic nightlife and great parties, check out these places in Los Angeles: – Sunset Boulevard – Venice Beach – Hollywood Bowl

What places are free to visit in Los Angeles?

Check out these free places to visit in Los Angeles: – The Broad – Venice Beach – Santa Monica Pier

What places in Los Angeles can you visit today?

Find out about the best tours, attractions and places to visit in Los Angeles on Klook . Everything that’s on today will be listed there. And if you want a more local experience, check out Airbnb experiences .

What are the coolest places to visit in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is cool in itself, but a couple of places really stand out. Check them out: – Walt Disney Concert Hall – TCL Chinese Theater – Farmers Market

Los Angeles is often seen as a place that’s all surface and flash with nothing underneath and this reputation isn’t entirely undeserved. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t entertainment and food options for almost every taste in this sprawling city. After all, Los Angeles is a city that’s set up to enthrall and amuse, and it does both of these extremely well as you’ll see when working through this list.

Art Patterson

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Thanks Ashley Ryan for sharing this great information! It does not matter if its the first visit of Los Angeles (LA) or living in the city, as one of the most populated places globally has plenty of attractions to engage anyone like Los Angeles. The Broad, Hollywood Sign, Venice Beach Boardwalk, etc are one of the great examples of most attracted places in LA and having a charter bus rental ensures to have the best time on the trip.

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The Ultimate 2 Days in LA Itinerary (2024)

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Spending 2 days in LA and not sure what to do? This itinerary shows you how to tick all the highlights off your bucket list in under 48 hours.

It’s almost impossible to road trip through California and not visit the city of Angels. But since Los Angeles is such a large and vibrant city, seeing it in only two days can be tricky. You could live there for months and still find new places to explore!

Two days in Los Angeles does give you a great opportunity to see some of the main highlights alongside a few hidden gems. This 2-day itinerary shows you an easy and efficient way to see the city. Let’s dive in!

Santa Monica Pier

Dodgers baseball game, mondrian los angeles, joshua tree national park, how to get around los angeles.

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2 Day Los Angeles Itinerary

Breaking down all the best things to do in LA is tough – there are so many great places! But we managed to take all the best bits and divided them into two days.

Day 1: West Hollywood, Beverly Hills and Santa Monica

If you’re on a tight time schedule, two days in Los Angeles will definitely be enough time to see some of the best spots in the city. On the first day, we start by checking off some LA bucket list items.

Hollywood Sign

We start our two day Los Angeles itinerary with what probably is the most iconic and famous sight of the city: The Hollywood sign. Located on Mount Lee in the Hollywood Hills, the sign has been photographed thousands of times, starred in many movies and TV shows and attracted many tourists to LA.

The sign was created in 1923 and originally spelt out “Hollywoodland”. At first, it was only meant to be a temporary advertisement sign promoting a local real estate development. But due to its popularity, the sign stayed up.

One of the best places to enjoy the sign is in Lake Hollywood Park. Put 3000 Canyon Lane Drive into your navigation to get there. Here, you can find a park with a great view of the Hollywood Sign. For more great photography spots of the Hollywood sign, check this article .

Walk Of Fame

No visit to Hollywood is complete without the famous Walk Of Fame on Hollywood Boulevard. With more than 2,500 terrazzo and brass stars as part of the sidewalk, honouring the accomplishments of some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry, the Walk Of Fame turned into a tourist hotspot.

But do go in with the right expectations. Hollywood Boulevard is kind of a tourist trap and not as glamorous as it may seem in pictures and videos. It’s still fun to walk around it, see it with your own eyes and take a picture with the star of your favourite actors – but keep your expectations low and avoid going into any of the shops. They really try to profit from all the tourists and sell stuff with a crazy markup.

After walking upon the stars, head over to Sunset Boulevard for lunch. Here, you can find one of the most popular fast-food chains in California: In-N-Out Burgers . They are mainly found in California but are slowly expanding to other states as well. Their burgers are delicious (my dad went for seconds)! Make sure to try their house speciality, Animal Style Fries, which come with cheese, some onions and a tasty burger sauce.

Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive

Beverly Hills is a city in the LA county, mainly known for its many celebrities who made this their home. If you want to enjoy some fascinating architecture, I’d highly recommend driving around for a while. Don’t expect to see any celebs walking their dogs, though 😉

While in Beverly Hills, head over to Rodeo Drive. This shopping district was put on the map when Beverly Hill 90120 aired. It is one of the most expensive (and luxury) shopping districts in the world. Obviously, I couldn’t really afford anything here, but it’s fun to see it with your own eyes!

The Original Farmers Market

If you’re not into burgers and fast food, do not worry. I have another recommendation for lunch right here: The Original Farmer’s Market. This historic Los Angeles landmark opened in 1934. You can find many food vendors, food stalls, local produce markets and other eateries here. There is a massive variety of foods available, so there really is something for everybody there. You can find more information about the Original Farmers Market on their website.

End your first day in Los Angeles in Santa Monica. It’s only a little drive away from Beverly Hills. The famous Santa Monica Pier makes for a perfect place to spend your evening. On the pier, you can find an amusement park (with the iconic Ferris wheel), restaurants and shops. The perfect place to watch the sunset!

Day 2: Downtown LA

After having seen some of the main highlights of Los Angeles, we head over to downtown LA on our second day. Downtown LA has a lot of really cool places to check out, and you can see quite a bit in just one day. Here are my recommendations.

Walt Disney Concert Hall & The Broad

Start your day at the Walt Disney Concert Hall. There are some affordable parking spots quite close to this building, making it a good start to the day. Even if you don’t go inside, the building is impressive enough to leave an impression.

Afterwards, you can visit The Broad which is located pretty much next to the Concert Hall. The Broad is a modern art museum that has a magical mirror room.

And the best thing… It’s completely free to visit! Just make sure you reserve tickets on their website before you go.

Angels Flight Railway

The Angels Flight funicular has been featured in many films, including La La Land. Only for that, it’s worth taking a peek. But also because it’s very close to the next two stops on this itinerary. For only a dollar, you can ride this iconic funicular. It only takes about 45 seconds, but it’s a cute little experience to add to your list.

The Grand Central Market

Food lovers’ paradise is only a few minutes away from the Angels Flight Railway: The Grand Central Market. With 38 different food vendors and a wide variety of international and local dishes, there is something for everybody to enjoy. The dishes are quite affordable and very Instagram-friendly 😉

It started off as an actual market back in 1907 and turned into a trendy meeting place for locals and tourists alike. It does get pretty hot in summer, so keep an eye out for that!

Bradbury Building

You may recognise the picture below from Blade Runner. The Bradbury Building was one of the locations where the film was shot. With many locations in LA, it’s really cool to see these places in real life. The building is open to the public to enjoy and because it’s almost next door to the Central Market, I’d highly recommend popping in for a quick picture.

Blue Bottle Coffee

Across the road from the Bradbury Building, you can stop for a quick coffee fix. Blue Bottle Coffee is a coffee chain that specialises in speciality coffee. America is big on coffee, and I sure do like a cup as well. Blue Bottle Coffee makes sure to serve coffee within 48 hours of roasting the beans, allowing you to experience it was peak flavour. They really know their coffee and it’s great to learn more about it from their staff.

The Last Bookstore

On to one of my all-time favourite spots in Los Angeles: The Last Bookstore. Yes, I love books and stories. That ain’t a secret. But add that to the most instagramable shop in California that also sells a ton of affordable secondhand books – say no more .

The Last Bookstore is located in downtown LA and is the largest bookstore in the state. Not only does it have an archway made of books, but they also hold many bookish events and sell many books by local authors. I ended up buying 3 secondhand books for $20 in total. They were all in great shape and they turned out to be lovely keepsakes to remind me of my two days in LA.

Dinner with a View

The city of Angels is even prettier from higher up. Good thing that they have countless rooftops with restaurants, bars and cafes that give you some of the most stunning views across downtown LA.

If you get the chance, please check out one of the rooftop restaurants for a beautiful end to your two days in Los Angeles with a view across the city as the sunset. You can find some of the best rooftop bars in LA in this article.

If you happen to spend two days in Los Angeles while the Dodgers are playing a game, please do go check it out.

We were lucky enough to visit LA when they played a home game and it was one of the coolest things we did in the US. Baseball is such a big part of the American culture.

Watching a game, eating a hot dog while doing so and chanting along with songs I didn’t really know the lyrics to (“ Take Me Out to the Ball Game …..”) – it was amazing!

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Picking a place to stay can always be tricky, especially in a city as massive as Los Angeles. Whether you’re on a budget or don’t mind spending a bit more, here are some recommendations:

Travelodge by Wyndham Hollywood-Vermont/Sunset

You can never go wrong with Travelodge. This hotel is located in East Hollywood, making it a very affordable option for this location. It’s everything you need for two days in Los Angeles.

Ace Hotel Downtown Los Angeles

A tiny bit more expensive, but a big upgrade compared to the Travelodge. As the name suggests, this hotel is located in downtown LA. The rooms are modern and very comfortable. Plus, the hotel has a rooftop pool and bar!

If you feel like treating yourself to a stunning and absolutely amazing stay, check out the Mondrian in Los Angeles. Located in the heart of the Sunset Strip in West Hollywood, you’re not going to get a better location to stay at. Stylish and spacious rooms alongside an outdoor pool (with underwater music) and panoramic views over the city.

Day Trips From Los Angeles

You could stay in Los Angeles for weeks and still find more than enough things to do. But if you’d like to see some more of the vicinity, here are a few recommendations of day trips you can make.

Universal Studios Hollywood or Disneyland

In LA, you can find both Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland California. When we were in LA, we decided to go to Universal Studios rather than Disneyland because we only had time to visit one of them. Of course, I can’t compare the two because I only went to one – but I really enjoyed Universal Studios.

Even though the rides were great, my favourite part was the Studio Tour. Taking us through the actual Hollywood studios, and seeing places where some of my favourite shows and films were shot was amazing! The park was definitely a bit smaller than I expected at first, but that gave us the opportunity to do all the rides in one day. I was lucky enough to be chosen for the interactive wand picking at Ollivanders in the Harry Potter World, making it an even more precious memory.

Because Universal Studios is quite a busy theme park, I’d highly recommend pre-booking your tickets . If possible, try to avoid weekends and holidays.

Palm Springs

Just two hours from Los Angeles lays Palm Springs. Filled with hot springs and luxury spas, it is the perfect getaway destination when you’re in LA. Apart from great coffee shops, restaurants and vintage stores, Palm Springs is known for its midcentury modern architecture.

From Palm Springs, you can also take a trip to the famous Salvation Mountain or explore Joshua Tree. For a more detailed guide on how to spend some time in this desert oasis, check out my Palm Springs itinerary.

A unique flora was created where two deserts met in Joshua Tree National Park. The strangely looking Yukka Trees (also known as Joshua Trees) give the park its name and its fame. It’s a magical place, unlike anything else on the planet. So when you’re in Los Angeles, it’s worth making a little day trip out to Joshua Tree.

Want to see more of the United States of America? Check out my Denver to LA road trip itinerary to find out what I saw during my three weeks across the US.

Los Angeles Travel Tips

Before giving you my recommended two-day itinerary, I’d like to give you some extra tips for your trip to LA. If you’re already prepared for your Californian adventures, you can scroll down to the actual itinerary. But for those who still need some extra info; here you go!

Money In Los Angeles

As many of you will already know, the currency used in the USA is American Dollars ($). As with all currencies, the numbers fluctuate over time, but it currently sits around:

€1 = $1.11 £1 = $1.30 ¥100 = $0.92

The tipping culture in the United States of America is something that kinda throws off tourists. It’s confusing when you’re not familiar with the way tipping works, especially if it’s not such a big deal in your home country. But because servers’ wages are incredibly low in the US, it is good custom to tip at restaurants, bars and hotels to make up for this low pay. On average, it’s recommended to tip 15% . Some good guides to read about how to tip properly in the US can be found here .

Is 2 days enough in Los Angeles?

Spending two days in Los Angeles gives you enough time to see most of the highlights, including Hollywood, Santa Monica and Downtown LA. Especially if you want to see more of California, I wouldn’t recommend spending more than two days in Los Angeles, since there is so much to see nearby.

Best Times to Visit Los Angeles

Although Los Angeles never really gets too cold, the city does get very hot (and crowded). Especially during the summer, the heat and the massive wave of tourists do make the city a bit less enjoyable to visit. Personally, I’d recommend going in the fall if you have the choice.

If you’re travelling through the US or California, you’re most likely already using a rental car. Using a car is by far the easiest way to make your way around LA. Do keep in mind that parking prices tend to get pretty pricey. It’s always a good idea to double-check with your hotel to see if they have on-site parking.

If you don’t have access to a car, Los Angeles also has a great public transport system that you can use. You can use this guide for all the info you need about using the LA public transport systems.

Conclusion: Two Days In Los Angeles

I hope this 2 day Los Angeles itinerary gave you some good ideas on what to do in LA. Let me know if I missed any of your favourite things to do in this beautiful city – I’d love to go back someday!

Nele (Nay-la) graduated from Manchester Metropolitan University with an English and Creative Writing Degree and has lived in the UK for nearly 10 years. She has had an interest in Japan and its culture for as long as she can remember. Since her first trip in 2018 surpassed all expectations, she has continued to return to Japan to explore more of all it has got to offer. You can read her full story here .

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The Perfect 2 Days in Los Angeles Itinerary

By: Author Stefania Guglielmi

Posted on Last updated: March 31, 2023

Categories North America , USA

Only 2 days in Los Angeles? No worries: this Los Angeles itinerary will guide you through the best things to do in Los Angeles for first timers and what to see in Los Angeles in 2 days.

LA is like a cluster of cities, and it’s hard to say where is the center of LA. I wouldn’t know what to reply if you asked me! Therefore, if you have only 2 days in Los Angeles (maybe as part of an epic San Francisco to LA road trip ?) or are planning a weekend trip to LA, it might be a little overwhelming to plan your visit.

That’s why I put together this 2-day Los Angeles itinerary to hopefully make things easier for you. Wondering what to do in Los Angeles in 2 days? Without further ado… start reading!

Day 1:​ ​The Essentials: Hollywood, Beverly Hills & Griffith Observatory  

To check out Los Angeles in two days, you’ll begin by exploring Hollywood’s highlights, a must in your itinerary for Los Angeles. If you don’t feel too confident organizing transport and the day’s route by yourself, or just don’t feel like hitting the landmarks on your own, there are great tours that cover pretty much this day’s plan and are a great alternative. 

➤ This Hollywood Sightseeing and Celebrity Homes Tour takes you around Hollywood in an open-air bus with an expert guide that will be pointing at all the important landmarks and answering all your questions. You’ll pass by Dolby Theatre, Hollywood Sign, Rodeo Drive, the movie studios and you’ll also get to see the mansions of famous stars. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ If you’re up for a full-day tour, VIP Hollywood and Beverly Hills Day Tour is your best bet. Starting early in the morning,  you’ll be taken to Hollywood Walk of Fame, the Chinese Theatre, Dolby Theatre, and get a great view of the Hollywood Sign before heading to the live outdoor taping of ExtraTV, where you’ll be able to meet famous presenter Mario Lopez. Highlights like Rodeo Drive, Sunset Blvd. and Santa Monica Pier are included, among others. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Take a Walk Down Hollywood Boulevard 

On your first morning, let the sun rise on Hollywood, the land of dreams on celluloid.

You can start off your discovery by taking a walk down Hollywood Boulevard , one of the biggest and everlasting cultural icons Los Angeles possesses, no matter how much time passes since the Hollywood golden era. With landmark spots, museums, and other bits of rich heritage, this is one of the must-go places in LA, and here are a few suggestions on how to make the most of Los Angeles in 2 days. by spending your first morning here.

⚠️ Before I continue, let me give you an honest tip: do not drive to Hollywood. Parking is hard to find, pricey, and the area is worth exploring on foot.

If you’re not staying in the area, you can easily reach the heart of Hollywood by bus (Metro busses run on Hollywood Blvd and the adjacent Sunset Blvd) or by metro (the Metro Red line stops 3 times between La Brea and Western), or of course, by calling an Uber or a Lyft . You’ll thank me later!

Another good option for moving around these 2 days in Los Angeles without a car is the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour . You’ll pass by famous sights and attractions and enjoy a recorded narration, but you’ll also be able to hop-off at whichever stop you want to explore the area and hop-on again later, with unlimited use for 24, 48 or 72 hours. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Hollywood Walk of Fame  

If you came to LA to be among the stars, here’s your first chance to walk among them. Going down the road on Hollywood Boulevard, the sidewalk is filled with stars dedicated to over 2,500 of the greatest performers the world has ever known, from Michael Jackson to Paula Abdul, Louis Armstrong, Clint Eastwood, and many others.

The crossing at La Brea and Hollywood Blvd is a good starting point for this exploration; you’ll recognize it thanks to the white, circular arcade at the southeast corner of the intersection).

After a few blocks of stargazing, stop at the shopping center in front of Orange Ave. If you walk a couple of flights of stairs and look north, you’ll see the Hollywood sign blinking in the distance on the Hollywood mountains, a highlight on your LA itinerary.  

The Dolby Theatre 

The Dolby Theatre ( formerly known as “The Kodak Theatre” and located at 6881 Hollywood Blvd) has been the home of the world-famous annual Academy Awards ceremony since it was opened up in November 2001. While it also serves as a host to other concerts and performances during the year, guided tours of the theatre are available every morning.

Check out the inside of the theatre, sit where your favorite stars have sat, and soak up in the glamour of it all; it’s one of the best things to do in LA for 2 days.

TCL Chinese Theatre IMAX 

The TCL Chinese Theatre, just left of the Dolby Theatre and very visible from the street thanks to its over-the-top decorations, is one of the world’s most famous cinema houses . Besides screening some of the best movies, the cinema provides a great Hollywood experience.

You can pose for pictures with models of all your favorite stars from Darth Vader to Beatrix Kiddo from Kill Bill , and you can also place your hands and feet in the same places your faves did at the theatre forecourt. 

Visit a Quirky Museum 

If you are looking for a more structured display of Hollywood’s fine artifacts, then visit a museum.

➤ Check out the Guinness World Record Museum where all the documented feats of the world are brought to life.

➤ Visit the life-sized wax models of your favorite stars at the Hollywood Wax Museum .

➤ Alternatively, discover many of the obscure oddities displayed at the Ripley’s Believe It or Not Museum . 

This itinerary of LA in 2 days also includes all the yummy food that California has to offer, so while you’re in Hollywood you should treat yourself to a classy lunch.

A great option is the oldest restaurant in Hollywood, Musso & Frank Grill , open since 1919 at 6667 Hollywood Blvd. Order a dry martini and a stake for a very astounding meal in the land of classic cinema. 

Ride Down Rodeo Drive 

With the morning over and your nice walk of Hollywood completed, get in a car and explore Beverly Hills as you take a ride down Rodeo Drive, about 15 minutes away from Hollywood with no traffic.

Rodeo Drive has more than 100 stores, restaurants, and hotels lining its path, enclosed in three blocks in the Beverly Hills exclusive shopping district – The Golden Triangle (between Rexford Dr, Santa Monica Blvd, and Wilshire Blvd). Park for free and window shop at any of the ultra-high-end stores where the mega-rich visit.

If you didn’t have lunch yet, find something to eat and drink at any of the outdoor cafes or restaurants.

➤ My to-go place here is Guisados (120 S Linden Dr), for the best tacos in LA.

➤ Not into Mexican food? Sugarfish by Sushi Nozawa (212 N Canon Dr) is always a wonderful treat for high-class sushi, even if it’s at another price level than Guisados , as well as the minimalist nook Walter’s Cafe (153 S Beverly Dr), for good easy food at a good easy price.

Wherever you eat, consider a handcrafted, delicious cupcake at Sprinkles Beverly Hills Cupcakes (9635 Santa Monica Blvd) on your way out. 

▶ Not very interested in this afternoon plan? You can go on a self-guided walking tour in Downtown LA instead. Downtown LA didn’t use to have a great reputation, but it’s now really great to spend a few hours.

Tour Celebrity Homes in Beverly Hills and Bel-Air 

After your food and shopping stop on Rodeo Drive, get back in your car and take a ride around Beverly Hills and the nearby neighborhood of Bel Air. You can drive around and take a tour of the magnificent homes where some of America’s biggest stars have lived (and where some still currently live).

If you’re an architecture buff, do check out Spadena House (516 Walden Dr) and O’Neill House (507 N Rodeo Dr), two very unique buildings that deserve a peek. Take also a look at The Playboy Mansion (10236 Charing Cross Rd), where the legendary Hugh Hefner lived for many decades, or at the Spelling Mansion, also known as The Manor (594 S Mapleton Dr), home of the great producer Aaron Spelling.

Last but not least, I always like a stop at the Graystone Mansion (905 Loma Vista Dr), where you can do a self-guided tour of this omnipresent film location. No matter the house you’ll be looking at, for the best tour from Rodeo Drive, I recommend driving west on Wilshire, then take a right on Beverly. Glen. This way, you can take a right on Sunset Blvd and explore from there. 

➤ If you’re not up for a drive, check out Starline Tours, the original company that started doing celebrity homes tours. The classic Hollywood Celebrity Homes Tour can take you through more than 30, giving you the history of these landmark homes as you go along. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Drive to 3000 Canyon Lake Drive 

With your celebrity mansion tour complete, you may think you have seen Hollywood. But have you really seen Hollywood if you have no proof? That proof awaits you at 3000 Canyon Lake Drive, where you can take the best photos of yourself with the renowned Hollywood sign . It is not difficult to find, too.

From your Bel Air and Beverly Hills photo driving tour, take Mulholland Drive all the way to the Cahuenga Pass under the 170 Highway.

Otherwise, if you’re ready for an early dinner and don’t want to wait for the Hollywood sign sight, drive north to Studio City and stop at the In-N-Out Burger there (3640 Cahuenga Blvd). Not familiar with In-N-Out Burger ? Welcome to the best fast food on the west coast, serving freshly made cheeseburgers and a set of secret dishes, such as the animal-style fries. 

➤ Another fun way of finishing your first day and experiencing the amazing views of LA from above is hiking one of the highest peaks in Griffith Park, all the way to the iconic Griffith Observatory. On this Griffith Observatory Hike , you’ll be able to get shots of the Hollywood Sign along the way and listen to your guide’s tales of Hollywood’s history.

Right before sunset is the perfect time to do it, as you’ll get unobstructed views of the city in the gorgeous golden light. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

A Night at The Griffith Observatory 

You’ve spent the morning walking through the Boulevard and the afternoon driving through the streets of Beverly Hills. A great way to spend the first evening of your Los Angeles 2-day itinerary would be to head down to the Griffith Observatory, where you can enjoy some of the best views in town .

The Griffith Observatory is a must visit for two reasons; firstly, it has the best close up view of the Hollywood Sign. Second, there are lots of awesome attractions in the Observatory and admission is mostly free!

Look at distant stars through telescopes, explore various exhibits, and see shows like “​ The Once and Future Griffith Observatory ​” in the Leonard Nimoy Event Horizon Theater. All of this is free of charge, although you’ll need to be early as there may be a line on most days. 

If you’re not ready yet to call it a day, exit the Griffith Observatory park on Los Feliz Blvd and drive west until you reach Franklin Ave. Here, between Western Ave and the 101 Highway, you’ll find something very special to end the first day of your L.A. itinerary: a walkable area with lots of things to do!

➤ If you’re into book and music shopping, you must visit Counterpoint Records & Books next door to the theater and open until 11pm on a weekend (needless to say, you can use this guide as a weekend in Los Angeles itinerary!).

➤ Finally, for a late dinner , you’ll find the vibrant French restaurant La Poubelle Bistro (5907 Franklin Ave).

Day 2: Beach Towns & Studios 

Day One of your 2-day itinerary for Los Angeles was spent seeing the essential attractions of glamorous stars and VIPs.

Spend Day Two playing, shopping, and visiting the beach towns and studios for some enjoyment on the go; trust me, with this LA itinerary, 2 days will fly by and seem like weeks at the same time, you’ll be having so much fun!

READ ALSO : Santa Monica Pier to Venice Beach: The Perfect One-Day Itinerary

➤ If you’re looking for a more athletic exploration, I recommend taking an electric bicycle tour and completing your Santa Monica and Venice Beach route on 2 wheels. You’ll enjoy the ocean breeze and get a tan to die for as you ride the e-bike that you can pedal yourself or change to the electric-powered cycle with the flick of a switch.

They only take small groups, so it’ll feel very personalized and it’s a great way of meeting new people if you’re traveling solo. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ Looking for an even more fun way of exploring Santa Monica and Venice Beach? Try getting around on a Segway! On this Santa Monica and Venice Beach Segway Tour , you’ll zip along many attractions in these two coastal areas, including the famous Santa Monica Pier, Muscle Beach and the Venice Boardwalk.

The guide will provide insightful commentary of the area’s culture and history, and you’ll also enjoy snacks and beverages along the way. It’s a great tour if it’s your first time in Los Angeles! ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Visit Santa Monica Pier and Beach 

Santa Monica Pier was opened in 1909 and has since grown to become a must-experience location for its sun and warm weather. It’s not a chance that it’s one of the best stops on the LA to San Francisco drive !

Head down to the spot where some of your favorite films – like ​ Iron Man, The L Word ​& ​ Species ​– were shot and get ready to have some fun; your two days in Los Angeles wouldn’t be complete without a visit to this area!

At the Pier, you’ll find the Pacific Park, with a Ferris wheel , a roller coaster, and more than a dozen other rides. It also has midway games like ​ Cat Rack ​ & ​ Whack-a-Mole ​, which adults and kids alike can have a great time trying to beat.

Just south of the pier, you may find the Historical Carousel (where you can enjoy a ride or schedule a private party), the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium , and the Pier Shop (where you can get gifts and souvenirs to mark your visit). To beat the heat and still enjoy your stay, buy a refreshing lemonade at the Hot Dog on a Stick classic red stand. 

When you are ready to move from the pier to the sand, Santa Monica Beach welcomes you with three and a half miles of soft, well-maintained sand and clear, beautiful water. Take out your sunscreen and spend your morning sunbathing on the beach, or paddle into the water for a swim.

You can also head down to the North Beach Playground for free access to slides, climbing equipment, and swings. These activities in Santa Monica should definitely be on any 2-day Los Angeles itinerary; be sure not to miss it!

Santa Monica Third Street Promenade 

If the Pier and the beach aren’t really your thing, Santa Monica still has a lot in store for you. The Third Street Promenade, literally a couple of blocks from the Pier, is an upscale, pedestrian-only complex in Santa Monica where you can shop for everything, from designer fashion brands to fresh fruit from a farmer’s market.

There are also restaurants with deliciously cooked meals, and entertainment centers from indoor spots to street performers.

➤ If it’s still too early for a real lunch but you’re craving something good, I suggest sipping a well brewed coffee at Demitasse (1149 3 rd St), where they brew their own beans and have a very eco-friendly approach to coffee making!

Venice, California

Just like Santa Monica, Venice is a bustling beach town that calls to millions of visitors every single year. And like its Italian counterpart, the town holds beautiful canals that you can walk through in the warmth of a late morning or sail through on a little boat. 

Venice Beach ​ is great for a good stroll on the sand and for a surf or swim. It is also known to many people as the world-famous ​ Muscle Beach ​ , ​fully fitted with an outdoor gym that is free to use and open to all who want to work out or simply watch other people perform daring and difficult feats of physical fitness. If you want to work out with some of the fittest people in the world, Venice Beach is the place to go. 

➤ If you’re feeling adventurous, change the weight-lifting for a 2-hour Group Surf Lesson in Venice Beach ! You’ll share it with a group, which is a great way of meeting people and cheering each other on, and after some training on the beach you’ll hop in the Pacific Ocean to catch some waves! It’s definitely an experience you’ll want to tell everyone about, and a highlight on your trip. The lesson is suitable for all levels, whether you’re a first timer or want to enhance your skills. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

READ ALSO : One Perfect Day in Venice Beach, California

After all that workout, you will probably be very hungry. Check out ​ Abbot Kinney Boulevard ​ for a gastronomic lunch treat with options from superb Mexican and Asian food, to gourmet burgers that give diners a taste of the American spirit.

Among the favorite spots for a great lunch are La Tostaderia (1121 Abbot Kinney Blvd), a small counter-serve spot for some bomb ceviche and fish tacos, and Yours Truly Venice (1616 Abbot Kinney Blvd), if you are looking for globally-inspired California cuisine.

Afternoon: Visit One of the Parks

After a delicious lunch, you’ll likely be ready to spend your last afternoon of this 2 days in LA itinerary exploring some more. It’s time to get to your car and check out an amusement park like Universal Studios and Warner Bros, or the museum complex (practically an amusement park!!), the Getty Center. 

Universal Studios Theme Park 

After building a great studio (which went on to produce some of the biggest films ever), Universal Studios opened its doors to public tours in 1915. It features movie-themed rides and roller coasters , including many well-known movies like King-Kong, Jurassic Park, Transformers, and Despicable Me. 

➤ If you have little time to visit, I suggest you get the Skip the Line Express Ticket to skip the line and enjoy one-time express access to every ride, show and attraction the park has to offer. There are limited Express Tickets available each day, so get yours beforehand. ➥ BUY IT HERE 

➤ Another option is to get the Hollywood General Admission Ticket . You’ll have access to the   Wizarding World of Harry Potter, get a behind-the-scenes look at film production and explore the place where movies are made with the legendary Studio Tour. You’ll also enjoy access to all the attractions of the park. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Warner Bros Studio Tour 

For movie lovers that don’t want to go on roller coasters, the Warner Bros Studio Tour allows you to fully experience the magic that goes into some of your favorite movies and shows from ​ Casablanca ​ to the ​ Ellen Degeneres Show ​, and ​ Fantastic Beasts & Where To Find Them .​

Through your tour, you will get to see many of the props and exterior sets used to create these shows, as well as archives with exhibitions dedicated to some of the biggest franchises like the DC Universe and the world of Harry Potter. 

➤ To get the most of your visit, book a Warner Bros. Studio Tour to discover all the secrets of movie-making and explore nearly 100 years of Studio History. If you’re a Friends fan, you’ll see your dreams come true: get a selfie in the real Friends Fountain and visit the Central Perk set from the show. At the end of the tour you’ll get to shop for souvenirs in the world’s only WB Studio Store. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

The Getty Center 

The Getty Center is the home of the Getty Museum, which is an art museum that features some of the most prominent pieces of art that the world has to offer.

Admission is free (just be prepared for the $15 parking fee!), and you can spend hours just walking through the exhibits and soaking in the artistic atmosphere. If you’re into art, this visit is a must even if you only have two days in LA!

A Night in Hollywood

To bring this awesome two-day adventure to a close, end your day on Sunset Boulevard . While you may recognize the name from the 1950 film, the Sunset Strip is also a great place to enjoy nightlife and have a good time, because in this Los Angeles itinerary, 2 days can perfectly fit some night-time fun!

➤ For dinner consider The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker (8653 Sunset Blvd) for a seasonal trendy meal of European influence, which you’ll enjoy sitting in cool yellow-leathered booths.

➤ For a more traditional experience featuring a staple of LA dining (“an American classic since 1947!”), you can also dine at Mel’s Drive In (8585 Sunset Blvd).

After dinner, grab a well-shaken cocktail at the ​ Mmhmm Cocktail Bar ​ or have some well-aged whiskey at ​ Rock and Reilly’s Irish Pub ​ to cap off your night. Still awake and in search of adventures?

This stretch of Sunset Blvd—the Sunset Strip—never sleeps and between Phyllis St and Holloway Dr you could bar hop or spend hours in the same clubs .

➤ Options include David Arquette’s vaudeville-inspired Bootsy Bellows (9229 Sunset Blvd), they gritty The Viper Room (8852 Sunset Blvd),  which Johnny Depp partially owned, and Sunset , a subterranean heaven for creatures of the night found inside the Edition hotel (1090 N Doheny Dr).

Wherever you go, no matter the time of day or night, just be prepared to be always amazed by Los Angeles and its many scenes, palm trees, and glamorous actors.

2 Days in Los Angeles FAQ

2 days in LA is definitely not enough. If you wonder how many days in LA are sufficient, you’d probably be short even with 2 months, with all the attractions, day trips and fun things you can do in the city! But if you only have 48 hours in Los Angeles, seeing the city’s highlights and exploring some of the best coastal areas in LA in two days is possible . With this guide you’ll be able to plan your 2 days in Los Angeles itinerary to make the most out of your time! 

The best place to stay in Los Angeles for tourists, especially if it’s your first time, is Hollywood , as it’s close to most landmarks and has great public transportation. If you’re traveling on a budget you should consider Venice Beach , a place with great vibes and a fun atmosphere, or Santa Monica if you’re there with your family (though it’s more pricey). Downtown LA is not as safe, especially at night, than the other areas, but it’s the place to be if you’re mostly interested in nightlife, parties and concerts. 

WAIT! HERE’S MORE L.A. CONTENT FOR YOU

Stefania Guglielmi is the founder of Every Steph. Originally from Bologna, Italy, she's been traveling full-time since 2016 and has visited over 50 countries across 6 continents. She believes sustainable travel and luxury travel can go hand in hand and has been advocating for responsible tourism since 2014. Stefania's advice and travel experiences have been featured in important publications such as Business Insider, Refinery29, and Yahoo Money.

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Ultimate Los Angeles Itinerary Ideas for first time visitors

Glitz and glamor. World-class art and stunning architecture. Michelin-starred restaurants. 

venice ale house. hollywood hills. orange county.

Los Angeles has perfected the dream destination vibe and is a bucket-list destination for many travelers. 

Whether you are visiting Los Angeles for the first time or the tenth, the city leaves most visitors awestruck and starry-eyed !

From its chaos and crowds on Hollywood Blvd to attractions such as Griffith Observatory and the Broad Museum, visiting LA is the ultimate Southern California experience!

Also Read: 32 Best Things to do in Los Angeles, California

Fun fact: We first visited LA on our epic three weeks long honeymoon – we partied in Las Vegas , hiked in the Grand Canyon, became star struck in Tinsel town, visited the theme parks in Anaheim, and biked the Golden Gate Bridge in San Francisco ! And that’s why Los Angeles will always be special to us!

Here is a detailed Los Angeles travel guide that makes the most of this amazing city.

Spend anywhere from a day to three, Los Angeles LA has enough attractions to offer for all kinds of travelers. 

How many days to spend in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is a huge city with plenty of things to do, so how many days should you spend there?

If you’re a tourist, three or four days might be enough to see the main sights.

But if you want to explore more of LA and its suburbs- maybe take a trip down the coast or see the theme parks, then five or six days would be ideal.

Keep in mind that Los Angeles is a very spread out city, so it’s important to plan your trip accordingly.

Related California Posts: 10 Days in California Itinerary Best Places to Visit in California Ultimate California Packing List Best Road Trips in California

Los Angeles Itinerary Ideas

In this post, we have suggestions for several different itinerary ideas for all types of visitors. 

Whether you are in the city for a week or looking for a weekend in Los Angeles itinerary, you can easily customize and use our trip planner ideas to have the best Los Angeles trip.

Also Read: 24 Best Places to Visit in California in winter

Los Angeles Itinerary 2 Days

If you are like most visitors, then you have just a weekend to visit LA.

The city has many attractions and it is really hard to see all of them in just a couple of days. 

And that’s why we suggest focusing only on the top attractions here. 

2 days in Los Angeles itinerary is perfect because you have enough time to go explore the city’s highlights such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica, and Getty Museums. 

This is also enough time to decide whether you like the LA vibe. If you like, you can always return for a longer visit.

Follow our Los Angeles 2 Days itinerary to plan your trip and see the most popular attractions in the city as listed below.

Day 1: Hollywood Walk Of Fame, Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, And The Beach At Venice And Santa Monica

We suggest starting your first day of two days in Los Angeles itinerary bright and early at the Hollywood Walk of Fame. 

This is downtown LA top-rated tourist attraction and gets crazily crowded later in the day. 

Don’t even think of visiting the area on a weekend evening – you will have to stand in line to see most of the engraved stars on the sidewalk.

Hollywood Walk Of Fame

The Walk of Fame is the famous 15 blocks of sidewalk along Hollywood Blvd where the names of over 2500 stars are embedded. 

It is fun to search for names you recognize and take a picture with the names of popular/favorite stars. 

If you can’t find any famous names, just follow the crowds on Hollywood Boulevard.

Most popular film icons have people waiting in line to get a photo. 

The Hollywood Walk of Fame while a ‘must’ tourist attraction on every 2 day Los Angeles itinerary, can feel overrated to those who don’t like crowds. 

Just like Times Square in New York City, it can seem like a big tourist trap with buskers, costumed characters who take photos for tips, and shops selling kitschy shirts and souvenirs at every corner.

Also Read: Los Angeles to Joshua Tree Road Trip

If you don’t like the vibe, then see a star or two and go on to our next attractions.

Other must-see attractions in Hollywood include the Chinese Theatre, Dolby (Kodak) Theatre, and Madame Tussauds Wax Museum. 

The Chinese Theatre and Dolby Theatre are worth a visit and definitely more interesting than the Walk of Fame. 

The Chinese Theatre has beautiful architecture and handprints of several celebrities on the sidewalks.

The Dolby Theatre hosts the Academy awards and is also beautiful to walk around. 

We visited the Wax Museum since we had never been to any Madame Tussauds but if you have seen another location, then it can be definitely skipped – unless you want a photograph with a particular celebrities’ wax statues that are only in L.A.. 

Overall I would suggest not spending more than 2 to 3 hours in the Hollywood Blvd area.

Sunset Blvd

Be sure to walk along approx 1 miles stretch of Sunset boulevard in West Hollywood!

This is known as the Sunset Strip and extends all the way upto Beverly Hills.

Here you will find everything from boutiques, bars, and restaurants to souvenir stores and flashy billboards.

The famous Beverly Hills Hotel is also located here.

Rodeo Drive

In the afternoon, we recommend window shopping on Rodeo Drive.

This is one of L.A’s premier shopping destinations where you will find all high-end fashion labels and spot a celebrity or two out shopping.

Rodeo Drive was made popular as L.A’s most snobbish shopping enclave by Julia Roberts in the movie ‘Pretty Woman’.

Since then, it has been a must-see in Los Angeles in 2 days.

If you love shopping, Rodeo Drive is a must on your 2 Day Los Angeles itinerary.

Window shopping in Rodeo Drive is a shopper’s delight; here you will find Gucci, Prada, Tiffany’s, Armani, and Cartier next to each other. 

Hollywood stars can often be spotted on Rodeo Drive, making this a top attraction!

Tip – Star sightings were common in the past, but if you are lucky you might spot an actor, supermodel, or other icons from Tinseltown.

We recommend stocking to window shopping and spending an hour or two here unless you have a fat wallet and actually want to buy something!

If you don’t like shopping, like me, you will still love Rodeo Drive.

Rodeo Drive has charming architecture and if you happen to visit in December, is covered in wreaths and holiday decor. It looks pretty, festive, and vibrant. 

Car lovers also enjoy coming here. In the parking spaces, you will find every premium luxury brand including Ferrari, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, and Porsche. You can also often spot classic motorcycles. 

Taking a photo with these beauties on Rodeo Drive is one of the most popular things to do in any Los Angeles travel itinerary.

Beverly Hills

After checking out Rodeo Drive, hop across to Beverly Hills.

This is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Los Angeles and several movie stars have their homes here.

On a tour of the iconic homes, you can see a variety of architectural styles, splendid palm-lined driveways, and perfectly manicured gardens. 

You can just drive around the area in your car but it’s hard to tell who lives where.

If you are really into celebs, then we would recommend a guided Beverly Hills Mansion tour that will point out specific homes owned by popular movie stars. 

For movie buffs, these Hollywood mansion tours are the most exciting part of Los Angeles trip itinerary!

You can check out Beverly Hills in the afternoon – take a photo with the famous Beverly Hills sign for the ‘gram!

We recommend ending the first day of the Los Angeles 2 Day itinerary either at the iconic Santa Monica Pier or Venice Beach Boardwalk. 

Both are great places to watch the sunset over the Pacific and enjoy a slice of beach life.

Venice Beach

Venice Beach is LA’s trendy, bohemian neighborhood. 

The area has lots of hip stores and restaurants along the boardwalk.

This area can be either a hit or a miss, depending on when you go. 

In summer it is often crowded and not very clean; it can also seem not very family-friendly.

However, if you visit off season, then Venice beach feels quite different, including the touristy boardwalk. 

There are a lot of eclectic shops and street performers on the boardwalk. 

The beach is also nice for a walk and for people watching. You can see people biking on the beach as well. 

Venice Beach has a really cool skateboarding area and visitors enjoy watching the talented skateboarders.

Another attraction while in Venice is nearby Muscle Beach where you can always spot muscle builders hard at work. 

An often-overlooked attraction in Venice is the canals – we definitely recommend adding them to your la itinerary if 2 days.

Resembling the canals in Venice, Italy, these canals have pretty arched bridges and are very pretty for a stroll. 

Historic Santa Monica Pier

For families on a 2 day trip to Los Angeles, we would recommend visiting the famous Santa Monica Pier instead of Venice Beach. 

There are many things to do at Santa Monica Pier with kids .

The wooden pier is home to the Pacific Park amusement park and its roller coasters, a vintage merry-go-round, a Ferris wheel, and other thrilling rides. 

The pier also has many places to eat, souvenir shops, shopping areas, and arcade games. 

Taking a stroll along the pier is a favorite with couples out for a romantic time.

The views of the Pacific from the Santa Monica Beach are excellent, especially at sunset. 

The pier is also great for people watching. You can also see people fishing from the pier.

Another cool attraction here is the End of Route 66 sign.

Yepp, this is officially the end of a Route 66 road trip! Taking a photo with the sign is one of the most popular photo ops while in Los Angeles.

Also Read: Route 66 road trip from California to Texas

If you have the time, you can also visit both Venice Beach and Santa Monica Pier together in one evening. 

These two neighborhoods are located only 3 miles apart from each other and you can actually walk the distance along the shoreline. 

Also, the Santa Monica Pier is open late into the night and can be easily fit in after visiting Venice Beach and the canals first.

Alternatively, you can also visit the beach at Malibu for a quieter beach experience during your Los Angeles two day itinerary. The beaches in Malibu are gorgeous and less crowded. 

Here you will find surfers, seagulls, seals, and the occasional celebrity. You can also see oceanside mansions in Malibu. 

In winter, you can also go whale watching – all within half an hour drive away from downtown Los Angeles!

Day 2: Museum Row On Miracle Mile, Farmers Market, And Griffith Observatory

After a day of soaking in the Hollywood vibes, we suggest devoting this day to admiring L.A’s top cultural attractions. 

Los Angeles is a great city for cultural travellers and boasts some of the finest museums in the country.

Museum Row On Miracle Mile

You can start this day by visiting the Museum Row on the Miracle Mile.

The museums located here are world-class and some of the best things to see in Los Angeles in 2 days.

This area of Los Angeles is home to 4 great museums: Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), La Brea Tar Pits / George C Page Museum, The Petersen Automotive Museum, Architecture and Design Museum (A+D Museum), and the Craft Contemporary.

Here’s a little information about the museums: 

LACMA has an extensive collection of art exhibits spanning over many centuries.

The famous ‘Urban Light’ sculpture, which has become one of LA’s top Instagrammable spots , is located at LACMA. 

The Petersen Automotive Museum is a must for car lovers. It has antique cars, futuristic vehicles, as well as famous cars including Lightning McQueen from the movie ‘Cars’. 

Looking for what to do in la for 2 days for design fans? A + D Museum is a must if you are into contemporary architecture and spatial design. 

However, by far the coolest museum to visit on Miracle Mile is the La Brea Tar Pits.

An astonishing number of Ice Age fossils have been discovered and excavated at La Brea. 

The excavated artifacts are on display at the adjacent George C. Page Museum and visitors can see skeletons of mammoths, ground sloths, and other extinct animals. 

You can also see paleontologists at work in the fossil lab.

If you or your kids love fossils and prehistoric animals, then definitely add La Brea and Page museum to your Los Angeles weekend itinerary.

Other cool things to do in LA in 2 days while in the Museum Row area include seeing the largest section of the Berlin Wall outside of Berlin at the Wende Museum, which is a part of LACMA.

Farmers Market

Early in the day, visit one of the museums on Miracle Mile based on your interest and then head over to the Original Farmer’s Market for lunch. 

LA’s Original Farmers Market is one of the biggest and most popular in the country.

It has fresh produce, baked goods, many eateries as well as souvenir shops. You should definitely add it to Los Angeles itinerary 2 days.

This is also a great place to buy artisan goods and gifts. 

We love strolling through the market and taking a look at all the items on sale.

Exploring the market can easily take up 1-2 hours of your time. 

If you don’t have time to visit the Farmers Market or would like to see another museum in that time, then you can have lunch at the Museum Square. 

Here you will find many restaurants, cafes, as well as a variety of food trucks.

Los Angeles has many other museums besides the ones located on Museum Row.

Here are a few alternative ways to spend your morning. 

Getty Museum

The Getty Museum is a free art museum spread over two different locations: Getty Center and the Getty Villa. 

The artwork collection includes Western as well as ancient European pieces. 

Getty Center’s impressive collection includes Van Gogh and Monet and is architecturally spectacular. 

The gardens can be seen on a free tour and are very well planned and maintained.

They also have many sculptures of interest.

The Getty Villa in Malibu features beautiful Italian architecture and transports you to Rome.

The collection includes Roman art and sculpture.

If Instagram is your thing, then you should absolutely visit LA’s newest museum, the Broad. 

This is also a free museum and features contemporary exhibits and modern art collections. 

Their ‘Under the Chair’ exhibit and Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms are some of the most photographed locations in Los Angeles.

The Broad should not be skipped even if you can spend only 2 days in la.

Tip – Visit the famous Grand Central Market for a bite after visiting the Broad!

Griffith Park And Observatory

After you have had your fill of the various museums, visit the Griffith Park and Observatory in the late afternoon. 

The Griffith Observatory has beautiful architecture and cool exhibits while the iconic view of LA and the Santa Monica mountains from the lookout at the top is breathtaking.

You can see the city views including LA Downtown and extending all the way to the Pacific Ocean. 

This is one of the most photographed views of the city.

Seeing the panorama when the sky turns golden will definitely be the highlight of your two days in la. 

We suggest checking out the observatory and exhibits first and then capturing the sunset over the city later.

Another popular time to check out the view is at sunrise.

The famous Hollywood sign is located on Mount Lee in Griffith Park and can be easily seen from Griffith Observatory. 

This is your chance to photograph the iconic LA landmark. 

The Hollywood Sign is also visible from most places in the city but we really loved the clear views from the top of Mount Hollywood, where Griffith Observatory is located. 

Most people visit Griffith Observatory but don’t explore the surrounding Griffith Park. 

The park is a great urban park and has many hiking and biking trails and other outdoor activities including golf courses and tennis courts.

It also has train museums, but you won’t have time to add them to la itinerary 2 days.

There are also many hiking trails within Griffith Park that lead to the summit of Mount Lee with great views of the Hollywood sign. 

For more information about these hiking trails, check the article here .

3 Day Itinerary Los Angeles

Day 3 in los angeles.

We definitely don’t want to end this perfect Los Angeles Itinerary for 2 Days without suggesting ideas to spend more time in the city. 

You can also use this plan to see something else instead of the museums on your Day 2 of LA trip. 

The way we planned the itinerary, you cover most Los Angeles highlights on Day 1 itself. 

We are museum lovers and so enjoyed visiting the famous Museums on Day 2. 

Here are some other ideas for spending your time in LA.

‘Behind The Scenes’ Movie Day

While the Hollywood oriented activities that we included on Day 1 are entertaining and thrilling, you can take it up a notch if you are a hardcore movie and television fan. 

To experience the magic of movie-making, you can go on a VIP tour of several movie studios. 

Such tours are offered by Warner Bros, Sony, and Paramount. 

You can also attend the live taping of a TV show for free and see first-hand how TV series are made.

Theme Park Fun

Los Angeles is a wonderful, wonderful city for thrill-seekers. 

We visited our first Six Flags ever in Los Angeles and fell in love with the adrenaline rush of the rides. 

Apart from Six Flags, Los Angeles also has other theme parks including Knott’s Berry Farm and Soak City. 

For a movie making cum roller coaster experience, visit Universal Studios. 

We loved touring their sets and watching some popular film sequences in action at Universal.

Disney Time

Anaheim, located less than an hour away from Los Angeles, is home to Disney amusement parks. 

There are hundreds of things to do at Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure from having breakfast with popular Disney characters, watching the Disney parade, riding themed rides, and so on. 

If you want the Disney experience without breaking the bank, consider visiting Downtown Disney instead of the theme parks. 

Downtown Disney also has cast members, lots of Disney souvenirs shopping, and excellent dining options along with free entry! 

We love the Star Wars virtual reality experience here.

Explore Los Angeles Off The Beaten Path

You need not even leave the city if you have extra time in Los Angeles.

There are lots of underrated attractions in Los Angeles to satisfy most travelers.  

We especially love exploring Frank Lloyd Wright’s homes in Los Angeles: you can take a guided tour of the Hollyhock House or check out the Anderton Court shops on Rodeo Drive. 

LA also has many other FLW homes but they are not open to the public. Driving up Mulholland Drive at sunset is another hidden gem. 

Take A Trip Down The Pacific Coast

If you want more beach time at some of the best beaches in California combined with gorgeous drives, we recommend hitting up the Pacific Coast Highway. 

Car rentals are easy to find in the city with most major car rental companies being located at the airport and a trip along the coast is a top favorite with visitors!

The drive from Los Angeles to San Francisco is one of the best drives in the world and has amazing views of the Pacific Ocean. 

Drive to Ventura, a charming beach town, and visit the secluded Channel Islands National Park.

Or enjoy the trendy vibe of Santa Barbara. 

Visit vineyards in the Santa Ynez Valley for exclusive wine tastings .

Another great option is Catalina Island with its picturesque setting and fascinating history.

Or head down to San Diego and explore attractions such as Balboa Park, La Jolla, and the San Diego Zoo.

Also Read:  Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip Itinerary

We hope you like our Los Angeles itinerary Ideas. How long are you planning to visit Los Angeles?

Do you have any other itinerary ideas or know of any attractions that we missed in this post? Let us know in the comments!

Ultimate Guide to 2 Days in Los Angeles, California

Written by mimi slawoff, california | north america | travel.

Beaches, museums, historic sights, and gardens are among the top attractions to see when you have 2 days in Los Angeles.

From sunny beaches and world-class museums to historic sites and gourmet markets, this ultimate guide to two days in Los Angeles features iconic attractions and hidden gems (from a local’s perspective). When family and friends visit Los Angeles, I’m happy to show them around. After all, as a native Angeleno, I enjoy sharing my favorite places and the popular sights in my hometown. People are often surprised to learn that L.A. comprises 88 incorporated cities within Los Angeles County, home to over 10 million people! So, there’s a lot of ground to cover. Here is our ultimate guide to 2 days in Los Angeles.

What's in This Article:

Must-See Sights in Los Angeles

We hope that you can spend some time in Los Angeles. You can visit Sonesta and choose the right hotel for you.

If you only have two days in Los Angeles, you want to start with the must-see sights. These places that help make L.A. an unforgettable city—and places you’ll recognize from television and movies over the years.

Historic Santa Monica Pier

When my childhood friend, Dorothy, was visiting from Australia, she wanted to visit the Santa Monica Pier. That sounded good to me, and I timed it so we would be there for a stroll, dinner, and sunset. The historic pier is bustling with rides, shops, and restaurants. There’s a lot to do here. The whimsical Looff Hippodrome, built in 1916, houses a carousel with hand-carved wooden horses. Pacific Park, a pier favorite since 1996, has many rides, including the solar Ferris wheel that offers panoramic views from 130 feet above the pier. It’s an exhilarating experience, and I encourage everyone to do this at least once!

Insider Tip : The Santa Monica Pier is a lot of fun, but if you’re looking for a quiet day at the beach, drive a few miles north to Will Rogers State Beach or about 20 miles to Zuma Beach in Malibu .

Dorothy Evanoff (left), visiting from Australia, and the author at the Santa Monica Pier. Photo courtesy of Mimi Slawoff

Annenberg Community Beach House

Just minutes north of the Santa Monica Pier, the historic Annenberg Community Beach House is an oceanfront property that’s open to the public. William Randolph Hearst built the home in the 1920s for actress Marion Davies. This hidden gem features a swimming pool with marble decking, volleyball courts, a guest house, and many more amenities. The property was sold to the state of California in 1959 and is operated by the City of Santa Monica.

Insider Tip : Consider a few hours swimming and playing at the beach house, and then head to the Santa Monica Pier for dinner with sunset views.

The oceanfront Annenberg Community Beach House was built by William Randolph Hearst. Photo courtesy of Annenberg Community Beach House

• Best-selling author and beloved chronicler of Los Angeles D.J. Waldie reconsiders the city in a collection of contemporary essays.

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Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park

The 4,200-acre Griffith Park is a true urban gem. And the crowning jewel is the 67,000-square-foot Griffith Observatory perched atop Mount Hollywood. Built in 1935, the observatory has numerous public telescopes, exhibits, and shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium. The observatory underwent a renovation and expansion in 2002 but retains iconic features, such as the beautiful central rotunda housing murals and the Foucault Pendulum, demonstrating the Earth’s rotation. The observatory is the best place for city views of L.A. and the Hollywood Sign. Plus, in the evenings, free public telescopes are set up on the roof and lawn for visitors to observe the night sky. Free admission.

Insider Tip : Even with only two days in Los Angeles, try to squeeze in some time to explore the park. Take a hike, have a picnic, or visit other attractions in Griffith Park. These include the Los Angeles Zoo, Autry National Center, a historic Merry-Go-Round, and the Travel Town Museum – where my kids and I spent many hours when they were little.

The Griffith Observatory offers city and night sky views. Photo courtesy of Griffith Observatory

Original Farmers Market

I enjoy meeting friends for lunch at the Original Farmers Market at 3rd and Fairfax. The market has over 100 merchants with a range of yummy ethnic dishes. One of my favorite places is Monsieur Marcel Bistro, which serves authentic French cuisine. Adjoining the café is Monsieur Marcel Gourmet market, where the shelves are packed with various imported goods. The cheese counter is among the best in L.A. In addition, the market hosts seasonal events.

Insider Tip : The Original Farmers Market is a top tourist attraction. So if possible, arrive in the morning to snag a parking spot. But if the lot is full, you’ll find space in the adjacent parking structure.

Monsieur Marcel Gourmet Market has one of the best cheese counters in L.A. Photo by Mimi Slawoff

Iconic Hollywood Attractions

When you have just two days in Los Angeles, you can’t begin to see all of those 88 cities. But you do need to see a bit of Hollywood. These iconic attractions have beckoned visitors from around the world for the past century.

Hollywood Bowl

Add a concert under the stars to your two days in Los Angeles. You can even bring your own bottle of wine to the venue. Since 1922 the Hollywood Bowl has hosted the finest artists from all genres of music. The Bowl is also home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic. An evening at the Hollywood Bowl is probably the most quintessential L.A. experience.

Insider Tip : Parking in the Hollywood Bowl lot is limited and expensive. Plus, it can take up to an hour to exit after a concert. We usually park in a separate lot and take a shuttle to the bowl. Here are some parking options .

The Hollywood Bowl hosts top musical acts from around the world. Photo courtesy of Christina Mendelson

Hollywood Walk of Fame

People come from all over to see the Hollywood Walk of Fame . Just know it’s in a gritty part of Hollywood. In fact, my friend Dorothy was a little disappointed in Hollywood. I think she was expecting something a little more glamorous. And I understand that. But still, it’s Hollywood history.

The 2,700-plus terrazzo and brass stars are located on Hollywood Blvd from Gower to La Brea and on Vine Street from Sunset to Yucca. The first star was for Stanley Kramer on March 28, 1960, near the intersection of Hollywood and Gower. The Hollywood Chamber of Commerce continues to add stars—about two each month—to the Walk of Fame.

Insider Tip : Well worth visiting is The Hollywood Museum , about a three-minute stroll from the Walk of Fame. Housed inside the historic Max Factor building, the four-story museum has many exhibits with movie props, costumes, photos, and other memorabilia. The first floor is dedicated to make-up king Max Factor, and dressing rooms and costumes used by Marilyn Monroe, Lucille Ball, and other stars.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame features over 2,700 celebrity names. Photo courtesy of “Consider Your Ass Kissed” by Ruta Lee/BHBPR

The Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood Sign is among the most photographed landmarks in L.A. Perched on Mt. Lee in the Hollywood Hills, the name Hollywood is spelled out in 45-foot-tall white capital letters and is 350 feet long. It’s visible from many places, including the Griffith Observatory.

Insider Tip : While it’s illegal to reach the sign, there are several trails that get close enough for good photos. Try the Mt. Hollywood Trail . The trailhead is accessible from the Griffith Observatory parking lot.

The Hollywood Sign is L.A.’s most photographed sign. Photo by Mimi Slawoff

Universal Studios Hollywood

A stone’s throw from Hollywood, the Universal Studios Hollywood theme park and working studio is in Universal City. I always enjoy the Studio Tour , a behind-the-scenes look at this historic studio lot. Comfortable trams, with narrated video by Jimmy Fallon, travel through 13 city blocks and to sets and sound stages with state-of-the-art attractions. Highlights include the tour’s classic stops at a flash flood set and the Bates Motel from Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho . There’s also the smoldering wreckage from War of the Worlds and King Kong 360 3D.

Wizarding World of Harry Potter

Although this Harry Potter land isn’t as large as Orlando’s, it’s a well-designed and fun area. The park’s magical Harry Potter area is home to Hogsmeade Village and the rides “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey™” and “Flight of the Hippogriff™.” Both are fun, but Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey is especially thrilling. Using state-of-the-art technology, the ride soars and whirls through the castle. It’s a fast-moving ride that jostles you, so stow your phones and hats.

Insider Tip : If you enjoy Hollywood history and studio tours, check out the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood in Burbank . The approximately two-hour narrated tour aboard trams visits numerous sets. Some walking involved.

Hogsmeade Village, and the Butterbeer cart. Photo courtesy of Universal Studios Hollywood

• In this book, studio staff historian and Hollywood insider Steven Bingen throws open Hollywood’s iron gates and takes you inside the greatest and yet most mysterious movie studio of them all: Warner Bros.

Cultural Sights

Los Angeles isn’t all about Hollywood and the movies. As the country’s second most-populated city, L.A. is home to some great cultural sights. These are my favorites to check out when you have two days in Los Angeles. Many offer free admission.

The Getty Center

Among L.A.’s many museums and galleries is the Getty Center . You can walk or take a tram from the (paid) parking lot to the hilltop Getty, which has city and ocean views. The entire complex is a work of art. Composed of six buildings, Getty’s art collections include paintings, antiquities, sculptures, photos, and manuscripts from the Middle Ages to the present. Beyond the gallery walls, art is prominent in the Getty’s architecture, fountains, and gardens. At the heart of the Getty is the 134,000-square-foot Central Garden, which changes with the seasons. A cozy walkway crosses over a stream with a stone waterfall and leads to the gardens. Strategically placed benches and a wide grassy lawn make this an ideal area to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Insider Tip : Wear comfortable walking shoes and allow at least three hours to explore the Getty. Free garden, architecture, and collections tours take place daily.

The Getty’s Central Garden is a work of art. Photo by Mimi Slawoff

Getty Villa

The Getty Villa in Malibu is the original Getty Museum. Smaller than the Getty Center, the villa contains about 44,000 works of art from the Museum’s extensive collection of Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities. More than 1,200 are on display.

The Villa has four gardens designed in an ancient Roman style. The largest garden has a reflecting pool, a statue, covered walkways, and ocean views.

Insider Tip : It’s about a 15-minute drive from the Getty Villa Museum to Malibu Country Mart, a great place for a bite to eat. Among my picks: John’s Garden, which serves salads, sandwiches and shakes.

The Getty Villa in Malibu has four gardens designed in an ancient Roman style. Photo by Mimi Slawoff

Historic Sights: La Brea Tar Pits

You’ll smell the pungent tar before you see it. And once you see the tar—actually pools of asphalt—you can understand how mammoths, mastodons, saber-toothed cats, and other Ice Age animals got stuck in the gooey matter. It’s amazing that these Ice Age animals roamed the land now known as L.A. But it’s even more mind-boggling that you can still see traces of them at the La Brea Tar Pits —the only active urban fossil dig site in the world. Watching excavators carve and dig out fossils from the outdoor dig sites is free. There’s an admission fee to enter the onsite George C. Page Museum, which contains exhibits and a see-through Fossil Lab where scientists sort microfossils, clean mammoth tusks, and do other tasks.

Insider Tip : La Brea Tar Pits is located on Museum Row. So once you park, you can visit one or two other museums if you have time during your 2 days in Los Angeles.

La Brea Tar Pits is an active excavation site. Photo by Mimi Slawoff

Exploring Downtown During Your 2 Days in Los Angeles

Although many people visit Los Angeles County and say they’ve seen L.A., most people never make it to downtown L.A. If you have 2 days in Los Angeles and are looking for something a bit off-beat and historic, consider visiting downtown.

• Founded in 1917, Grand Central Market is a legendary food hall in Downtown Los Angeles that brings together the many traditions and flavors of the city. Now, GCM’s first cookbook puts the spotlight on unique recipes from its diverse vendors, bringing their authentic tastes to your home kitchen.

Olvera Street

Although Olvera Street is touristy, there’s a lot of history at this lively, open-air Mexican Marketplace, around since 1930. The pedestrian-only marketplace features merchants, authentic Mexican dishes, and seasonal performances. Olvera Street is also home to historic homes and museums. It’s part of the 44-acre El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument, which marks the birthplace of Los Angeles.

Insider Tip : If you’re in town for Cinco de Mayo, plan to stop by Olvera Street for the celebration. Live music and dance performances, along with a festive ambiance, make this a fun place to be.

Olvera Street is a popular Mexican marketplace. Photo courtesy of Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board

• Growing south from the plaza where the city of Los Angeles was founded as a tiny pueblo in 1781, the area now known as downtown L.A. was first developed in the late 1800s as a residential neighborhood, complete with churches and schools. As the population surged at the turn of the 20th century, the downtown area was transformed into a busy business and entertainment center of shops, banks, hotels, and theaters. The explosion of the postcard craze in the early 1900s coincided with this period of downtowns tremendous growth toward a formidable metropolis. This collection of vintage postcards offers a glimpse into the changing city through the 1940s.

How to Get to Los Angeles

The Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the main hub. But many people prefer the Hollywood-Burbank Airport because it’s small and easy to get in and out. However, it offers fewer and generally pricier flights than LAX. Once you’re in L.A., you’ll probably need a rental car unless you’re staying with friends who don’t mind driving. Of course, when you’re at the beach, renting bikes to cruise around is fun.

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When You Have 2 Days in Los Angeles

With a sunny climate most of the year, any time is good to visit L.A. But the fall months—September through early November—are especially nice. Warm temperatures, fewer crowds, and less traffic are good reasons to visit in the fall if you only have two days in Los Angeles. Check out more great places to see when you visit California . Looking for more two-day escapes or what to do on a long layover? Check out our Ultimate Guide to Two Days series on Wander.

2 Days in Los Angeles, California: The Ultimate Guide

2 Days Ultimate Guide | Los Angeles | Southern California | Wander Guides

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Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A Guide to 5 Amazing Areas

Despite living in San Francisco for nearly a decade between us, we had never really spent any significant time in Los Angeles until recently. On our last visit we spent over a week living in LA and exploring the city’s many distinct neighborhoods. The sprawling city – which is truly GIGANTIC – has so much to offer, and there’s a nearly unlimited number of areas to consider staying. 

Picking where you stay will almost certainly play a huge role in shaping your LA experience – are you spending time doing, seeing, and eating, or are you spending time in the car full of road rage at LA’s crazy drivers? We put together this guide to help you decide where to stay in Los Angeles by narrowing down the options and giving you our take on what each area below has to offer. 

Our best advice? Figure out what you want to do while you are staying in LA, and then pick a location near the majority of those attractions. This will save you hours of wasted time stuck in traffic. 

Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post, like hotel links, are affiliate links, meaning at no additional cost to you, we make a little bit of money if you click through and book. That being said, we would never recommend something to you that we don’t stand behind 100%.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles: The 4 Best Places to Stay

If you are staying in LA for more than three or four days, our advice would be to stay in two or three different areas. You could spend a few days by the beach relaxing, a few days getting your adrenaline rush at the theme parks, and the rest of the time in Downtown LA or West Hollywood so you can explore the city. 

In this guide to the best places to stay in Los Angeles – based on our time exploring the sprawling California metropolis – you’ll get the information you need to choose a place to stay in LA and find a perfect home base for your visit. 

Here are the four neighborhoods we think you should focus on in your search. Each has distinct pros and cons, which we’ll cover below, and it kind of depends on what you’re looking for.

In most cities, we usually have a “best for first-timers” recommendation, but we don’t have that here. It totally depends on the experience you’re looking for in Los Angeles.  

Don’t have time to read the whole post? Here’s a quick summary (though we’d definitely recommend reading the section for the neighborhood you choose!).

• If you want to stay near the beach , stay in Santa Monica . 
• For a quick weekend trip (and those on a budget) , stay in Downtown LA .  
• If you want to stay in one of the coolest neighborhoods in LA , stay in Silver Lake .  
• If you want to stay in an area with amazing nightlife , stay in West Hollywood (also super LGBTQ+ friendly). 

Santa Monica: Best Place to Stay Near the Beach

If you want to be close to the beach, the answer is Santa Monica. Plus, it’s on the west side of the city, which means getting around the city will be just a tad easier thanks to the reverse commute (ish).

This beachside neighborhood is a destination in its own right, boasting a mix of celebrities, surfers, and hippies who call this place home. While most people come here solely for the beach, and it is an amazing beach, there are plenty of other things to do in the area. 

The famous Santa Monica Pier is a bustling attraction with arcades, shops, outdoor cinemas, and live music. Just underneath it is an aquarium which hosts educational talks and hands-on activities that are perfect for families. 

Santa Monica can be an expensive area to stay; if you are on a budget, nearby Venice Beach is more cost-effective (more on that in a second).

Alternatively, if you want to just spend a day here, you can actually catch a train from Downtown LA ! 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Santa Monica

Pros : The beach! You’ll be within walking distance of the best beach in LA. The Farmers Market in Santa Monica is AWESOME too. The stretch along Montana Avenue is one of our favorite stretches in LA, with all sorts of bars, restaurants, and shopping that is worth a visit. 

Cons : It’s going to take a while to get to Downtown LA, Silver Lake, and the rest of the east side. Plan on grouping those areas together if you’re going to make the trip over there. Parking is a nightmare here, and you’ll probably need to pay for parking – either at a hotel, or at a garage – if you stay here with a car. It’s also expensive – the closer you get to the ocean, the more expensive it’ll be. 

Santa Monica Highlights

• Spend the day at Santa Monica State Beach and Santa Monica Pier. Santa Monica State Beach is a 3.5-mile long expanse of sand that is perfect for relaxing or partaking in water sports. Make sure to check out Santa Monica Pier, a long boardwalk packed with arcades, shops, and restaurants. While you’re here, stop by Pacific Park, the amusement park on Santa Monica Pier. The ocean views from the roller coaster and Ferris wheel are unreal.
• Stroll through Palisades Park. Palisades Park is 25 acres of greenery by Santa Monica Beach. It has fantastic views of the ocean and trails for walking, running, or biking.
• Head to Venice Beach. Venice Beach is an iconic part of Santa Monica with its t-shirt shops and street performers. Head to Muscle Beach to watch the bodybuilders work out in front of crowds of curious people. While you’re in the area, explore the Venice Canals where ducks and paddle boarders float on the streams.
• Grab some fresh food at the Santa Monica Farmers Market . This is one of the best farmers markets in LA, with tables full of fresh produce from the area’s quality farmers. You will be buying your food alongside celebrities and famous chefs. It is open Wednesday and Saturday mornings from 8 am to 1 pm.
• Browse the stores at Third Street Promenade. Third Street Promenade is three pedestrianized blocks packed with 80 retailers. You will find everything from indie boutiques to designer stores. Once you’re finished shopping, there are some great restaurants and bars to try.

Where to Stay in Santa Monica

In our opinion, the best place to stay in Santa Monica is the north end of the neighborhood, between the beach and near Montana Avenue, a strip full of restaurants, bars, and shops that was our favorite “cutesy” street in LA.

However, there are a couple of beachfront hotels that are worth looking at. But you’ll be paying for it. Hotels in Santa Monica are expensive since it’s such an in-demand place to stay. 

Like I mentioned above, if budget is an issue, many of the hotels in Santa Monica are going to knock your socks off, at least in terms of how pricey they are. If you’re looking to splurge though – maybe you’re celebrating a special occasion – this is the place to do it. It doesn’t get any better than beachfront luxury in Santa Monica. 

The Georgian Hotel

The Georgian is by far the most affordable hotel in this neck of the woods, which is surprising since it’s steps away from the Santa Monica Pier and Beach. They have 84 rooms, some of which have ocean views, and a rooftop restaurant where you can watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. It’s pet friendly too – with a surcharge, of course. 

Palihouse Hotel Santa Monica

The Palihouse Hotel has been an iconic part of LA since the early 1900s. It has designer furnishings and is only five minutes away from the beach. All of the rooms except the classic rooms have kitchenettes. While It is too small for an onsite gym, they partner with local gyms that offer a range of different equipment and workout classes. 

Proper Hotel

The Proper Hotel is a beautifully decorated delight to the senses. It has won awards for its stunning interiors, decorated in natural colors and materials. The highlights of this hotel are its rooftop pool and proximity to local restaurants and bars. It also has a focus on wellness with a yoga terrace with regular classes and an Ayurvedic Spa. 

Casa Del Mar

Casa Del Mar is one of a few beachfront hotels in LA. It is a luxury hotel with a pool overlooking the beach and live music every evening. Each of the rooms is lavishly decorated and has four-poster beds, curated bookcases, and a little sitting area. The spa offers popular treatments like oxygen facials and hot stone massages. 

Shutters on the Beach

Shutters on the Beach is the other beachfront hotel in LA. It is frequented by celebrities because of its high-end amenities. The hotel offers private yoga classes or surfing lessons. Even if you don’t stay here, make reservations at the onsite restaurant 1 Pico, where they host a weekend lobster brunch. 

Downtown LA: Best for Short Trips + City Lovers

Downtown Los Angeles is a popular area to stay because it’s packed full of interesting attractions – from Grand Central Market to Staples Center – and bars, restaurants, and clubs. For that reason, it is one of the best places to stay in LA if you do not have a car. 

While it is the historic heart of the city, the grand bank buildings have been turned into quirky shops and world-class restaurants. The number of skyscrapers in this neighborhood means that Downtown LA is the commercial hub of Los Angeles. This is the best place to visit if you want cool nightlife and some of the best eateries in town. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Downtown Los Angeles

Pros : If you’re here for a short trip, then Downtown LA is a great home base because there’s a ton to do and see in the area, and you can hop over to Hollywood, the Arts District, Chinatown, and Silver Lake pretty easily. It’s also relatively cheap, with a huge selection of great hotels. If you’re into art and culture, this is the place to be – the Broad, Staples Center, and a lot of the music venues like the Philharmonic are here.

Cons : It’s very much a concrete jungle, though there are a few green spaces. It’s also adjacent to Skid Row, which is infamous and not the best place to be. Parking is hard, so if you have a car you’ll have to pay for parking. 

Downtown LA Highlights

• Try the best food in LA at Grand Central Market . Started in 1917, this LA staple collects some of the best LA food under one roof. No matter what you’re craving, you’ll find it here.
• Shop and eat at ROW DTLA . This downtown shopping hub offers 32 acres of unique shops, restaurants and cafes. It packs globally recognized brands and indie labels in one area. Don’t miss Smorgasburg on Sundays – it’s a HUGE open air collection of food trucks and stalls serving all different kinds of food.
• Check out what’s going on at LA Live . LA Live is a massive entertainment center which includes the Staples Center, a movie theatre, bowling alley, nightclubs, restaurants, and even a museum. If you are ever at a loss for what to do, there is always something fun happening at LA Live.
• Drink great coffee! There are some great coffee places in Downtown. Some great brands like Verve Coffee Roasters, Blue Bottle Coffee, and Stumptown Coffee have cafes here. But the pinnacle is Cognoscenti Coffee , which has two locations near downtown and is one of the best coffee shops in LA.
• Devour delicious tacos at Guisados . This is one of my favorite places to eat when I’m in Downtown LA. Aside from a couple of fillings, the whole menu is gluten-free, and all of the tacos are flavorful with a little bit of a kick.
• Browse the bookshelves at the Last Bookstore . This bookstore is housed in a former bank building, and the shelves of vintage books have found their home among the marble columns and high ceilings. Support your independent bookstores and stop by to find your next great read. 

Where to Stay in Downtown LA

This part of the city is full of incredibly hip hotels, and the best part is that they are more affordable than other parts of the city. 

If you have a car, be prepared to pay a little extra for parking every day.

The Freehand Hotel

The Freehand Hotel is decorated to look like you’ve walked into the 60s, with colorful print tiles, wood paneling, and shabby chic furniture. It’s one of the best combinations of style and affordability in the city. We have stayed at their location in New York City , and we liked it.

The traditional hotel rooms (they also have suites, which are plenty spacious) are on the small side, which the prices reflect, but you won’t be spending time in your room anyway – you’ll be exploring LA! The hotel’s restaurants and bars are regular hangouts for the cool crowd of LA. 

The Broken Shaker cocktail bar is on many lists of the best bars in LA. There is a rooftop pool and a small gym in the basement. 

The Hoxton , which is one of my favorite hotel chains in the world, has a classic feel to it, with vintage touches and a clean, neutral color scheme. It’s at the south end of Downtown LA, near Staples Center , the Fashion District , and Santee Alley , a fun flea market (ish) place to wander and shop for trinkets, some of which you didn’t know you needed. The building it’s in was once the home of the LA Railway HQ, but has since been restored with touches that give a nod to their London roots. 

The hotel draws a trendy crowd of locals and tourists to its restaurants. There is a hotel pool that is open from sunrise to sunset and has great views of Downtown LA. The pool bar serves a range of classic and new cocktails. 

Ace Hotel LA

The Ace Hotel , which is a hipster hotel chain that I have stayed at in both Seattle and New York City , resides in a theater building which was modelled after Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. The grandeur of the Gothic building has informed the vintage style of the hotel interior, and they have even restored the cinema in the basement. 

Alongside classic rooms, the hotel offers spacious industrial loft-style rooms with huge windows overlooking the city. For a special treat, get one of the rooms with a view. 

NoMad Hotel

The NoMad Hotel oozes sophistication with its luxe interior and a gorgeous rooftop pool overlooking the city. Rooms range from cozy hotel rooms to spacious suites, all with comfortable beds, hardwood floors, and – this is the first time I’ve come across this one – complimentary newspaper delivery (I’m in). There’s also a gym with Peloton bikes if you want to get a workout in before a day of exploring. 

The rooftop pool area also includes a popular cafe and a cocktail bar. Most of the suites at the Nomad come with a freestanding bathtub offering beautiful views of the city. 

Hotel Figueroa

Hotel Figueroa is an oasis of calm in the middle of a very busy city. It’s one of the oldest hotels in LA, and it was remodeled over the course of two years to restore it to its “1926 Spanish Colonial splendor” (I liked the phrasing there). It was originally a destination exclusively for professional women travelers, and has kept some of that ethos as it has grown into one of the best boutique hotels in Los Angeles over the years since. 

It is decorated with clean lines and plump, glamorous furniture with subtle pops of color. The décor celebrates women’s art, with female artists featuring heavily. However, the best amenity is the coffin-shaped outdoor pool with plenty of sun loungers. 

Hotel Indigo

Hotel Indigo is a great midrange hotel option in just about any city in the world, including Los Angeles. The rooms are stylish and simple, but they’re actually pretty spacious compared to a lot of other hotels. The Metropole Bar and Kitchen are the onsite bar and restaurant, and they also have a penthouse bar called 18 Social. Oh, and they have a pool, because of course they do it’s LA. 

The Wayfarer

The Wayfarer Downtown LA sets itself apart from other hotels. Standard rooms are small, but thoughtfully laid out and designed so that you won’t even notice. Customize your experience by choosing from what kind of view you want – skyline or urban, which I think means “no view” – and what kind of bed situation you’re looking for – one king, two queens. 

The rooftop pool includes a tiki bar with tropical cocktails. They also have a DIY restaurant on site where you select their meal and are given portioned ingredients to cook their own meal. This restaurant regularly hosts cooking classes and offers wine pairings too. 

Silver Lake: Best For Feeling Like a Local

Silver Lake and Echo Park are adjacent neighborhoods that are close to Chinatown and Downtown LA. Since these areas cater mostly to locals, there are amazing cafes, quirky boutiques, and hidden gems to explore. There’s really only one place to stay here that’s not a vacation rental, and we think you should avoid vacation rentals in Los Angeles. 

You should know before you choose to stay here that this is the epicenter of gentrification in Los Angeles . It’s a desirable neighborhood, which has brought more demand and caused rising rent prices that have forced out communities that have lived here for decades in order to renovate their apartments and turn them into vacation rentals, or open a new hip clothing boutique. 

We’re not going to fix gentrification here, but you should go into staying in these two areas knowing the impact that your visit (and others like you) have had on this community. We definitely recommend staying in a hotel (there’s basically only one) rather than a vacation rental, which takes much-needed long term housing units off the market in service of making landlords more money. 

With all that being said, we really liked this area of the city, and it’s nicely located for visiting the adjacent neighborhoods like Downtown LA and Los Feliz (and Hollywood). 

Pros and Cons of Staying in Silver Lake

Pros : There’s a ton of great restaurants, bars, and more in the neighborhood. Plus, it’s surrounded by other cool areas to explore, and close to Dodger Stadium, Elysian Park, and Griffith Park. 

Cons : This is a hotspot for gentrification in Los Angeles. If you’re not comfortable with that, look elsewhere. Sunset Boulevard isn’t the most pleasant street to walk on, since there’s multiple lanes of traffic zooming by (we thought it would be much more quiet), but the area near the reservoir is more charming and quiet. There’s not too many options outside of vacation rentals – in fact, there’s basically one good hotel – so your options will be limited (it’s a great hotel, though!). 

Silver Lake Highlights

• Explore the best coffee scene in LA. Silver Lake and Echo Park are residential neighborhoods that are a little bit hipster; therefore, they take their coffee very seriously. If you have been reading this blog for a while, you know that I love my coffee and will seek out the best coffee in every place I visit. Go to Intelligentsia and Dinosaur Coffee in Silver Lake, and Woodcat Coffee Bar in Echo Park.
• Eat amazing Thai food at Night + Market Song . This unpretentious restaurant serves a mix of popular and rare Thai street food. While it is a relaxed atmosphere with loud communal tables and a small counter serving as a bar, the delicious and authentic food draws the LA elite crowd.
• Browse the shelves at Stories Bookstore . This bookstore’s shelves are full of preloved books from classics to rare finds. On the outdoor patio is a small cafe where you can sit and enjoy the book you just purchased.
• Hike to the best views in LA in Elysian Park. There is a place in Elysian Park dubbed “the Secret Swing” which has the best views over LA and is one of the most popular spots for Instagram pictures. While it is a little bit of a hike, the views at the top are completely worth it. The swing tends to disappear from time to time, so be mindful it might not be there when you visit.
• Grab locally-grown produce at the Silver Lake Farmers Market . This farmers market is open Tuesday evenings and Saturday mornings. Here you will find the freshest produce, grown right in LA.

Where to Stay in Silver Lake

Like we mentioned above, there’s basically one hotel option in this neck of the woods. 

Silver Lake Pool and Inn

The Silver Lake Pool and Inn is a hipster’s dream, located right in the heart of Silver Lake. It’s right at the junction of Sunset and Santa Monica Boulevards, which puts you within walking distance of places like Intelligentsia Coffee and the farmers market. 

The rooms are both spacious (the smallest are a whopping 250 sq. ft.) and beautiful, with local furniture and fixtures and tons of natural light. They also have double rooms with two beds, which are perfect for groups visiting the city. 

The highlight, though, is the stunning rooftop terrace with a pool and beautiful views of the Hollywood sign. This truly is the best seat in the house for sunset cocktails. Each of the rooms has a Nespresso machine and a tablet with a guide on what to do and see in the neighborhood. Wifi is free (wooo!), and the hotel is pet-friendly, so you can bring the furry friends! Plus, parking here is only $20 a night in an underground garage, which is a steal in LA. 

West Hollywood: Best Central Location

Hollywood itself – the main drag –  is a bit of a tourist trap, if we’re being honest. The Walk of Fame really isn’t that cool, and it’s crowded and dirty. Plus, prices can be inflated, and you don’t really get a feel for the city. 

Instead of staying in Hollywood, we recommend staying in West Hollywood, which is a short walk away from all of the sights but has more of a residential feel to the neighborhood and is closer to some of the food, drinks, and other parts of LA that we love.  

West Hollywood is also the best place to stay in LA for nightlife. Sunset Boulevard is home to some of the best clubs in the world, and Santa Monica Boulevard is home to a huge concentration of LGBTQ+ bars and clubs. 

Pros and Cons of Staying in West Hollywood

Pros : West Hollywood is THE place to be after dark. Plus, it’s super central, particularly to the areas on the east side, but not too far away from places like Santa Monica. 

Cons : It’s loud and boisterous, so if you’re looking for a quiet retreat, this ain’t it. 

West Hollywood Highlights

• Run into celebrities at Book Soup . Book Soup on Sunset Boulevard is an iconic LA attraction. Celebrities such as Elton John, Bette Midler, and Stephen King have been sighted browsing the shelves. They don’t only sell books here; they also sell record players and a great selection of LPs.
• Stroll down the famous Sunset Strip. During the day, the Sunset Strip is full of popular stores. At night, the strip transforms into one of LA’s biggest nightlife hubs. If you are looking for a sophisticated night out, head to one of the hotel bars, such as the Tower Bar at Sunset Tower Hotel. For a trendy night out, head to one of the rock clubs like the Viper Room.
• Laugh until your sides hurt at iconic comedy clubs such as the Laugh Factory or Comedy Store . These venues attract big comedy names like Tiffany Haddish and Dave Chapelle. Make sure to check out who is playing during your stay. 

Where to Stay in West Hollywood

West Hollywood has a nice balance of hotels that offer a great value, and hotels that are splurge-worthy and great for special occasions (or just a treat-yourself weekend). 

Andaz West Hollywood

The Andaz is a super stylish hotel right on the Sunset strip. It has amazing views of the LA skyline from some of its 240 rooms, and some even have balconies with that unforgettable view. If you’re not one of the lucky ones, you can always head up to the rooftop pool or bar to soak up the views (and the booze). It’s also pretty affordable, which makes it a great combination of value, style, and location in West Hollywood. 

Kimpton La Peer Hotel

The Kimpton La Peer is popular because of the extra amenities you’ll have if you stay there. The hotel has bikes that you can borrow to explore the area, and you can even get short rides (under a mile) in the hotel Tesla if you need a ride somewhere nearby (bougie AF). The hotel also provides coffee, kombucha, and juice by the reception desk. 

Sunset Tower Hotel

Sunset Tower is right from the golden era of Hollywood, today it is still a popular celebrity hangout and a monument to opulence. The service here is unparalleled, with staff regularly going the extra mile. The spa is by Joanna Vegas, and if you are in town around the Emmys, celebrities are often here for treatments before the event. 

The West Hollywood Edition

The Edition is right on Sunset Boulevard. When you walk in, you’ll completely forget you’re in the middle of one of the biggest cities in North America thanks to a veritable jungle of greenery and tropical indoor plants. The clientele here are trendy and edgy, and you will feel a little bit cooler after just five minutes in the lobby. Check out the spa while you are there, which has a focus on natural and plant-based remedies (including those using CBD). 

Hotels vs. Vacation Rentals in Los Angeles: Which to Choose?

One thing I do want to touch on is vacation rentals in LA. 

If you didn’t already know, Los Angeles (like most West Coast cities) is in the midst of a full-fledged housing crisis, and while I wouldn’t point to vacation rentals as the primary cause, they’re certainly a contributing factor. 

I have mixed feelings about staying in vacation rentals in cities. 

On one hand, as a traveler who has Celiac Disease and usually needs access to a kitchen, they are a godsend that has allowed me to travel to places that just would not have been easy to visit if I had to stay in a hotel, where I MIGHT get a mini-fridge. 

On the other hand, in cities where there’s a housing crisis driven by a lack of supply and surging demand (which basically describes every major city on the West Coast, at this point), vacation rentals contributes to the problem by taking long term rental units off the market, since the landlord can usually make more money by renting it out for a weekend at a time. 

There are certainly pros and cons to staying in vacation rentals. To be a responsible traveler in LA, our recommendation would be to choose hotels in Los Angeles . There are tons of great hotels, so you’ll have no problem finding an amazing place to stay. 

Los Angeles Geography: A Rough Overview

The city is enormous, which gives you literally hundreds of choices of where to stay, with all sorts of different pockets that all have their own unique characteristics and cultures. 

At a super high level, we’d divide the city into east and west. And we’re going to speak in generalities here, so keep in mind that there are exceptions to the statements below. LA is massive, so we’re going to focus on the part of the city that you’re most likely going to want to consider when you’re searching for the right place to stay. 

On the east side of LA , you’ll find neighborhoods like Hollywood, Los Feliz, Silver Lake, and Downtown LA (among many others, like Koreatown and Chinatown). This side of the city feels more concrete jungle-y, particularly Hollywood and Downtown, and is less expensive than its western counterparts (with the exception of places like Los Feliz and Silver Lake). 

On the west side of the city , you’ll find the Pacific Ocean and neighborhoods like Santa Monica, Venice, and Culver City. The feel here is MUCH different, with beachy vibes all around and a more laid-back atmosphere. It’s also more residential, and significantly more expensive as you get closer to the beach. 

Should you Rent a Car in L.A.?

LA is the second most populous city in the USA, and the third most populous in North America ( Mexico City is the biggest). 

It is sprawling, covering over 500 square miles, and has no real public transportation system (WTF LA?) which means you’re probably going to be tempted to rent a car to get the most out of your stay. 

We’d recommend not renting a car and spending that money on rideshares instead. Parking can be a nightmare – plan on budgeting an extra ~$30 a night if you’re staying at a hotel with a car.

Pin this Post for Later!

Hey there! Did you find this guide helpful? If so, save it on Pinterest for later!

Our main takeaway from our time in LA is that it is an ENORMOUS city. Even though we spent a full week exploring this last time, we didn’t make it to every place on our list. Or even close, really. That’s why it’s super important to carefully choose where you stay in LA – it can have a huge impact on your experience. And you’ll have to plan a return trip to hit all the stuff you missed on your first one!

More to Explore in California

Heading to the great state of California?  Here are some other posts you might like.

• One Day in San Francisco: How to See the Best of San Francisco in a Day
• 4 Days in San Francisco: How to Plan an Amazing San Francisco Itinerary
• Where to Stay in San Francisco: A Local’s Guide to the Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free San Francisco: A Complete Travel Guide for Celiacs
• The Best Day Trips from San Francisco: 10 Amazing San Francisco Day Trips
• 5 Days in Los Angeles: How to Plan a Perfect Los Angeles Itinerary
• Where to Stay in Los Angeles: A Complete Guide to L.A.’s Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free Los Angeles: A Complete Guide for Celiacs
• 3 Days in San Diego: How to Plan a Perfect San Diego Itinerary
• Where to Stay in San Diego: A Complete Guide to the Best Places to Stay
• Gluten Free San Diego: A Complete Guide for Celiacs
• How to Plan an Amazing San Francisco to Los Angeles Road Trip
• Northern California Road Trip: The Best of the Northern California Coast

Matt is the founder and main writer behind Wheatless Wanderlust, which he started back in 2018 as a way to share his gluten free travel guides with his fellow Celiac travelers.

Since then, Matt and his wife Alysha have visited 18 national parks, spent three months in Europe and six weeks in Colombia, and have explored every corner of the Pacific Northwest, which is where Matt grew up.

He writes super detailed guides to the places they visit, bringing together personal experience and historical context to help YOU plan an amazing trip.

What a fabulous page! We are going on a California family road trip next summer. SF to San Diego (14 days) and I loved to read your page! I changed my hotel reservations in SF and LA after reading your suggestions! Thank you

Love the website and the great advice and tips it offers for novice travellers.

My wife and I are coming to spend 3 nights in LA then head up to SF for 4 nights before flying up to Vancouver for an Alaska cruise.

Got loads of great tips for both LA and SF.

We are picking up a car from LA early and planning to drive up to SF in a day, so wandering if you have any tips for must stops along the way but also taking into account our limited time. We don’t mind if the trip up takes us 12 hours with the planned stops along the way, so any suggestions will be greatly appreciated.

We love, sightseeing, beaches, eating so gives you a broad remit to play with.

Steve and Michelle

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These Two Chefs Just Created Los Angeles Best New Restaurant

Follow us on social media @thehungryblackman for more amazing Black owned eateries across the United States and adding to your foodie-indulgence list! Or subscribe to our blog by placing your email below for up-to-date emails and newsletters

Our team recently went on a five-day non-stop eating tour at Los Angeles’ Black owned restaurants a part of our quest to find the best of the best Black owned nationally. From sunup to sundown, we ate soul food, Mexican, African, and even Caribbean cuisine, experiencing the good, bad, ugly of LA’s Black food scene. You can follow our L.A. series and more by subscribing below or on our social channels @thehungryblackman.

Two Hommés was most definitely the good. In fact, if you’re looking for one of the most flavorful Black owned, chef inspired restaurants in Los Angeles, head to Two Hommés, located at 902 N La Brea Ave, Inglewood, CA 90302. It’s a new concept created by two friends, culinarians, and Los Angeles natives, Chef AB and Chef Mando. The restaurant turned two months old in October and is churning out some of the best food in Los Angeles.

Our experience started with exemplary customer service and an incredibly vibrant, and spirited dining room. The menu selections are best described as diasporic fusion for dinner service and brunch.

We started off with the Honey Berbere Chicken Bites with a citrus aioli dipping sauce and house made pickles. I asked Chef AB, who was also serving as cashier, if the Ethiopian spice and honey were compatible and he politely said, “if I put it on the menu, then believe me, they are.”

Well, let’s just say these outstandingly delicious, tasty nuggets surpassed my expectations. If you’re unfamiliar with Berbere, it’s the central spice in just about every aspect of Ethiopian cooking and has a very distinct, incredibly aromatic flavor. Hints of chili, coriander, garlic, ginger, basil and other exotic flavor profiles yield a smoky, bold, and memorable taste that married with the raw honey for one of the most culinarily beautiful bites we had the entire trip.

The constitution of the fried chicken confirmed that these brothers did not come to play. With a through and through crunch that left room for the tender poultry’s presence, they earned their spot as our favorite chicken bites to date! Yes, they are now our reference for chicken bites moving forward, with spice and honey merger forever engraved in our palates.

Next up was our entrée. I had a hard time deciding between the Shrimp and Grits with Lamb or the Jollof Platter. Lord Jesus, thank you for guiding me to select the Jollof Platter with Lemon Garlic Salmon served with Ghanian Jollof rice, black beans plantain, and an arugula.

Similar to African American mac and cheese, you will never have the same Jollof rice from two different cooks. This chef’s jollof was the most pronounced I’ve enjoyed in my seven years of food writing. It was smoky and not spicy at all with an expert infusion of herbs and seasonings, producing multiple layers of flavor with a hint of sweetness from tomatoes.

Paired with adorable culinary pals, lemon and garlic, the salmon was destined to be delicious. Tender and blasting with citrus and slight acidity from the lemon and further lifted with a dab of pungent and savory notes from the garlic, this salmon had my right leg doing the Holy Ghost foot shaking. Don’t mess around and eat the salmon along with the rice. You just might go into a fit inside those people’s restaurant.

The black beans’ texture is similar to the way they’re prepared by Cuban cooks in my hometown of Miami, but the flavor was completely different from anything you’re probably used to from any Hispanic culture. They had a distinct, sweet almost licorice-like taste that’s similar to aniseed or possibly star anise.

Because of their sweetness, they should be enjoyed separately, not with the Jollof.  The honorary Afro-Cuban in me wanted to pour these beans over some white rice. (Hopefully, these brothers will consider providing a side of buttery white rice to the menu.) The plantains tasted like a Jamaican grandma who had a good day cooked them, with their caramelized texture and natural sweetness that had me coming back bite after bite.

I gave this restaurant a solid 5 out of 5 stars. From service, menu options, flavor profiles, and portion price ration, this space knocked everything out of the park. It’s one of those spots that you miss tremendously when you get back home. You won’t be able to get it off your mind. You will wonder what the salmon is doing and be tempted to call but realize that the long-distance relationship will never work. You will try to find a substitute but come to realize that no one can compare. You will think of her, I mean, it and just wait for the next time that you two can meet again for what will certainly be a joyous reunion.

You can reach Two Hommes at (323) 388-3581.

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2 Days in LA: The Must-Sees on a Short Trip to Los Angeles

Are you planning a short visit to Los Angeles or are you looking for what to do in LA for a weekend?

Los Angeles, California is one of the top cities for many visitors to the USA

‘The City of Angels’… What do you do with just two days to sample this sprawling city?

I just went to LA for the weekend , to at least get a glimpse of the city we all know from so many movies. The city that’s home to Hollywood, Baywatch, and the Playboy Mansion. The city where many dream the American dream while waiting tables and pumping gas…

Over the years I’ve been to LA on several occasions to visit friends and although I’ve never fallen in love with this city (I much prefer San Diego ), Los Angeles is well worth a visit. And if you visit, even if it’s just for two days, at least try to visit some of these highlights:

What to Do in LA – the Must-Sees on a Short Trip

1. santa monica pier.

The Santa Monica Pier, used as the setting for so many scenes in movies, is definitely a must-visit in Los Angeles.

When one thinks of Santa Monica, the famous pier with its iconic red and yellow Ferris Wheel inevitably comes to mind. The Pier offers quite a decent amusement park, combined with plenty of restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops.

If you have some time to spare walk to the Third Street Promenade which is a nice retail, dining and entertainment area with a lovely atmosphere.

For more information check out  Downtown Santa Monica’s website

2. Venice Beach Boardwalk

Venice Beach and its famous boardwalk are well known around the world for their funky and offbeat vibe.

This 1.5 mile (2.5 kilometer) boardwalk has a bike path, skateboard ramps, restaurants, shops, and plenty of tourists.

Venice Beach is famous for muscle beach , where bodybuilders strut and invariably get mentioned in LA guides…

On the west side of the “walk” you can find hundreds of street vendors and performers. You can see everything from break-dancing to broken glass walking.

The Westside offers unique arts and crafts and on the Eastside you find the storefronts of the boardwalk. Here you will find every sort of t-shirt under the sun plus tattoo and piercing stores, skate and surf shops, marijuana dispensaries, and more. This is all in addition to the large selection of restaurants, juice spots, and bars.

If you are looking for what to do in LA for a weekend, Venice Beach definitely is a good option.

Visit LAParks.org for more information about Venice Beach.

Tip: If you love the beach and a laid-back vibe, consider a day trip to Catalina Island

3. Hollywood and the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Although it has declined from its peak glamour days, especially around the fabled Hollywood and Sunset boulevards, Hollywood is still the site of such show business shrines as the Walk of Fame and the trendy Melrose Avenue shopping district.

And it therefore deserves to be on this list of places to visit, even if you only have 2 days in LA.

The Walk of Fame, “Where the Stars are Immortalized”, comprises more than 2,500 stars embedded in the sidewalks along 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and three blocks of Vine Street. It’s overrun by tourists but it is one of these things you just have to see while in LA.

Hollywood is well known for its great nightlife so if you have time to fit in a visit to a trendy club or a happening bar, spend an evening here!

The area known as the Westside, located between Hollywood and the coast, is a more upmarket area and home to such glamorous neighborhoods as Beverly Hills and Bel Air. It is also the site of the famous Rodeo Drive shopping area.

4. The Hollywood Sign

Fun fact: the Hollywood Sign, the worldwide symbol of the entertainment industry, was actually created as an outdoor ad campaign for a suburban housing development called “Hollywoodland”.

The sign overlooks Hollywood and again it is just one of those things you have to see while in Los Angeles.

It’s actually illegal to get close to the Sign, which is set behind restricting gates and protected by security cameras and Park Rangers. And even though the sign is 45-feet (almost 14 meters) tall, it is quite difficult to get a good shot of it.

Some say around 3000 Canyon Lake Drive is the best place to see the Hollywood sign .

Or, if you are looking for a unique experience, book a helicopter tour that will take you right over the Hollywood sign for an incredible view!

5. Miracle Mile

Miracle Mile is a stretch on Wilshire Blvd, home to four major Los Angeles museums : LA County Museum of Art, La Brea Tar Pits (Page Museum), Craft Contemporary, and Petersen Automotive Museum.

If you want to add a bit of culture to your 2 days in LA then you should definitely visit the Miracle Mile.

6. Getty Museum

The J. Paul Getty Museum, commonly referred to as The Getty , is an art museum housed on two campuses: the Getty Center and the Getty Villa.

The Getty Center is located in the Brentwood neighborhood of Los Angeles and is the primary location of the museum. The collection features Western art from the Middle Ages to the present. Its estimated 1.3 million visitors annually make it one of the most visited museums in the United States .

The museum’s second location, the Getty Villa, is located in the Pacific Palisades neighborhood and displays art from ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria.

For more information visit The Getty’s official website

Tip: if you really want to know everything about the Getty museum you can book a private Getty museum tour with an expert guide

7. Griffith Park & Griffith Observatory

Griffith Park is a large municipal park. It has been referred to as the Central Park of Los Angeles but is much larger, more untamed, and rugged than its New York City counterpart.

It holds the Griffiths Observatory where you can look through telescopes, explore exhibits, see live shows in the Samuel Oschin Planetarium, and enjoy spectacular views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign.

For more information visit Griffithobservatory.org

8. The Original Farmers Market

The Farmers Market is an area of food stalls, sit-down eateries, prepared food vendors, and produce markets .

First opened in July 1934, it is also a historic Los Angeles landmark and I’d highly recommend stopping here for lunch or a snack.

Thanks to LA’s ethnic diversity you can taste food from all over the world here! It’s definitely one of my favorite places to visit when I go to LA for the weekend.

For more information go to Farmersmarketla.com

LA in 2 Days – Tips to Save Time & Money

Los Angeles is a big city, things are quite spread out and LA traffic can get pretty bad!

If you are only in LA for the weekend or for a short visit, I’d recommend checking out these 3 things:

1. LA in a Day – This is a tour of the highlights of Los Angeles which includes transport and ‘skip the line’ options to get to the main attractions quicker.

They have great guides and just make your visit to the must-visit places in Los Angeles a lot more convenient!

2. The Sightseeing FLEX Pass : If you are planning to visit several attractions this card will save you a lot of money !

You can choose a pass for 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6 attractions and save up to 50% on admission prices.

3. LA’s Hop-On Hop-Off Bus : If you don’t feel like driving in LA’s crazy traffic, the hop-on hop-off bus is a great option.

It takes you to Beverly Hills, Hollywood, around downtown Los Angeles and to Santa Monica Pier, so that you can visit all the main sites conveniently and at your own pace.

Where to Stay in LA

Are you not sure where to stay yet in Los Angeles?

Then check out my article about cool hotels in Southern California , which includes several hotels worth staying at in LA.

LA Events, Tours & Attractions

LA is worth visiting year-round but if you do happen to be there during a movie premiere then so much the better! 

Or look into attending one of LA’s many events. To find out what’s happening in Los Angeles while you are there check out these websites:

• TimeOut Los Angeles
• LA Weekly’s Event Calendar
• Discover Los Angeles

There really is a lot to do in LA and it can all add up quickly. But, you can find a lot of discounts as well. If you are looking for discount tickets for tours and attractions in and around Los Angeles I recommend checking out this website .

One Final Tip For Any Visit to Los Angeles: Rent a Car!

A common complaint about Los Angeles is that it’s so big and spread out and it feels like it goes on FOREVER! 

So, do as the locals do: drive. Rent a car , especially if you only have a few days in LA and want to see as much as possible.

Looking for an easy road trip from Los Angeles? Check out What to Do in Big Bear for a Perfect Short Trip

About Los Angeles, California

“Los Angeles is the land of delusions. You can live your life thinking you’re the best invention since sliced bread and no one will question your self-importance.” – Thoughtcatalog

Los Angeles has long been known as a city of dreams, a place for the dispossessed or disillusioned to start over and rebuild their lives. In the course of the twentieth century it grew to be the second-largest city in the United States, after New York City .

LA is a tourist magnet known for its sunny climate, beautiful beaches, and entertainment industry. But, in recent decades the city has also experienced the downside of urban expansion, with its air pollution, traffic congestion, and racial and ethnic tensions.

Yet the city remains a colorful, thriving metropolis working to overcome the problems of suburban sprawl.

Situated in Southern California, Los Angeles is one of only two U.S. cities without a majority population . People from 140 countries, speaking approximately 86 different languages, call Los Angeles home.

The city has a population of around 4 million and attracts over 50 million tourists per year.

L.A. is a crazy city where it seems to be all about looking healthy, refreshed and athletic. Juice cleanses, exercising, the perfect tan, and the perfect plastic surgery.

But, with all its craziness this unique American city is well worth a visit!

“In New York, you’re only allowed to be an asshole if you’re interesting. You have to earn the privilege of behaving like a dick. In Los Angeles, however, you can just be a dick. No funny jokes or good personality needed!” – Ryan O’Connell

• 9 Things to Do on a Family Day Out in Los Angeles
• A Catalina Island Day Trip from Los Angeles
• The Highlights of Santa Barbara
• A List of Day Trips From Los Angeles

Want to See More of California?

Check out my other articles about where to go and what to do in California .

And for more inspiration for weekend trips, check out this article about the best US weekend getaways .

Hotel Review: JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot

When I was last in LA for the weekend I stayed at JW Marriott’s Santa Monica Le Marigot hotel. It’s a hotel worth mentioning and I will therefore share my review.

Hotel Rooms: the rooms are spacious, very comfortable, clean and well maintained, with a good quality bed. Many offer a good view of Santa Monica beach.

Hotel Facilities: the hotel has a good gym, a spa and a nice lobby. Both the bar and the restaurant offer outdoor seating which, with the perfect Californian weather, is a great extra. Too bad the layout and walls around the property take away most of the sea view while seated on the terrace.

Hotel Location: absolutely perfect! With its direct access to Santa Monica Beach and short walk from the Santa Monica Pier it’s hard to beat this location.

Hotel Value: prices start around $300 per night, so this hotel isn’t cheap. But then you do get an amazing location and a comfortable hotel with good facilities and friendly staff. You pay extra for parking and in-room internet (unless you are a Marriott member) which at the hotel rates they charge I find a shame.

Overall rating: 8/10

If you are looking for where to stay in Los Angeles and want a comfortable hotel at a great location, JW Marriott’s Santa Monica Le Marigot hotel is definitely a good option.

For more information and to book online: JW Marriott Santa Monica Le Merigot

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3 thoughts on “2 Days in LA: The Must-Sees on a Short Trip to Los Angeles”

I was in LA for ten days last September and I’m definitely going back next year. There’s just so much to see and do. There really is something for everyone.

I loved reading about your Los Angeles short trip experience. Your descriptions really made it come alive for me. Happy travels!

Wow, amazing! I missed out some of them. But I will visit when I can get a chance to go to LA again. Thanks for sharing.

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Watch CBS News

2 police officers "essentially ambushed," shot and killed in Los Angeles County

By Faris Tanyos , Brian Dakss

Updated on: June 15, 2022 / 7:20 PM EDT / CBS News

Two police officers — one a 22-year veteran and the other a rookie — were shot and killed in the Los Angeles County city of El Monte late Tuesday afternoon, authorities said. The suspect is also dead. The mayor said the officers were "essentially ambushed."

The El Monte officers were identified Wednesday as Cpl. Michael Paredes and Officer Joseph Santana. Paredes, the longtime veteran of the department, is survived by his wife, daughter and son, police said. Santana, who previously worked as a public works employee and with the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department before joining the police department in his hometown, is survived by his wife, daughter and twin sons.

It is with heavy hearts that The City of El Monte & The El Monte Police Department announce the passing of Corporal Michael Paredes and Officer Joseph Santana. Corporal Paredes & Officer Santana were killed in the line of duty, while faithfully carrying out their sworn duties 🙏🏼 pic.twitter.com/wIzwjy6Iga — El Monte PD (@elmontepolice) June 15, 2022

"Corporal Paredes and Officer Santana paid the ultimate sacrifice, while in performance of a noble profession, serving the community they loved," police said in a statement Wednesday.

The shooting occurred at about 4:45 p.m. local time when El Monte officers responded to a report of a stabbing at a motel. When they arrived, they "immediately took gunfire," police said.

The two officers were rushed to a hospital where they later died, police said.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said the suspect was shot and died at the scene. 

City officials said the two officers were responding to a domestic violence report between a boyfriend and girlfriend.

According to police, the shootout started in the motel room. The suspect then fled into the motel parking lot, where another shootout occurred.

"As our officers do on a daily basis, they were acting as the first line of defense for our community members when they were essentially ambushed while trying to keep a family safe," said El Monte Mayor Jessica Ancona.

El Monte police said one officer had 22 years of experience and the other was with the department less than a year. The mayor said the veteran officer grew up and attended the school in the city.  

"They paid the ultimate sacrifice serving their community trying to help somebody," Lowry remarked. "They do what hundreds of thousands of men and women do every day across the United States. They took an oath to protect people and to serve them. These two heroes paid the ultimate sacrifice. They were murdered by a coward."

"We are grieving and it hurts," Lowry said.

Interim El Monte Police Chief Ben Lowry observed, "I've heard that the only way to take the sting out of death is to take the love out of life. Believe me, they were loved. These two men were loved. They were good men." 

A witness, Arthur Kintsbury, told CBS L.A. he heard five gunshots before additional officers arrived. He said two more officers got there later and also came under fire. They scrambled for cover.

"I saw the suspect was on the ground," Kintsbury said. "I already knew, considering he was laying there motionless, he was deceased."

Although the identity of the suspect has not been officially released by authorities, he was identified to CBS Los Angeles on Wednesday by family members as Justin Flores.

In 2009, Flores was sentenced to 16 months in prison for vehicle theft, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation told CBS Los Angeles. He served about two months of that sentence before being paroled. In 2011, he was sentenced to two years in prison for first-degree burglary. He served about 10 months before being paroled again.  

The city of El Monte and El Monte police said in a joint statement that, "There are no words to describe our grief and devastation by this senseless act as we learned about the passing of two of our police officers. It weighs heavy on our hearts and we are sending our support to their families."

This latest shooting comes a day after a California Highway Patrol officer was shot in Studio City . He is in critical but stable condition.  

• Los Angeles
• Police Officers

Faris Tanyos is a news editor for CBSNews.com, where he writes and edits stories and tracks breaking news. He previously worked as a digital news producer at several local news stations up and down the West Coast.

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The Tale Of Two Teams: Understanding How Los Angeles Ended Up With Two Nba Franchises

As one of the major media markets in the United States, Los Angeles has long been a coveted location for professional sports teams. Yet unlike other big cities, LA stands out for being the home of not just one, but two National Basketball Association (NBA) franchises—the Lakers and the Clippers.

If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Los Angeles has two NBA teams largely due to historical circumstances, timing, and ambitious owners determined to bring pro basketball to the lucrative LA market despite existing competition.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the unique stories behind both the Lakers and Clippers and explore the factors that allowed two NBA teams to develop and coexist in the same metro area.

The Establishment of the Lakers in Los Angeles

When it comes to the history of basketball in Los Angeles, one cannot ignore the significant role played by the Lakers. Originally based in Minneapolis, the Lakers franchise was established in 1947 as a part of the National Basketball League (NBL).

However, it was in 1948 that they joined the Basketball Association of America (BAA), the precursor to the NBA as we know it today.

The Lakers’ Move West

In 1960, the Lakers made a bold move by relocating from Minneapolis to Los Angeles. This decision was prompted by various factors, including the desire to tap into the rapidly growing television market in California and the opportunity to compete in a larger and more glamorous city.

The move was not without its challenges, as the team had to overcome financial difficulties and gain the support of the Los Angeles community. Fortunately, the Lakers were able to secure the backing of influential individuals such as Jack Kent Cooke, who would later become the majority owner of the team.

The relocation of the Lakers to Los Angeles marked the beginning of a new era for the franchise. The team embraced the glitz and glamour of the city, becoming synonymous with the Hollywood lifestyle. This move also laid the foundation for the fierce rivalry between the Lakers and the Boston Celtics, as they would go on to dominate the NBA in the years to come.

Immediate Success in LA

Upon their arrival in Los Angeles, the Lakers wasted no time in making their mark on the basketball scene. Led by the legendary Jerry West and Elgin Baylor, the team quickly established themselves as contenders.

In their first season in LA, the Lakers reached the NBA Finals but fell short of winning the championship. However, they would not be denied for long.

In the 1971-1972 season, the Lakers achieved an incredible feat by winning a record-breaking 33 consecutive games, a record that still stands to this day. This remarkable accomplishment catapulted them to the top of the NBA and solidified their status as one of the league’s elite teams.

The Lakers went on to win their first NBA championship in Los Angeles in 1972, defeating the New York Knicks in a thrilling seven-game series.

Since then, the Lakers have continued to be a dominant force in the NBA, capturing numerous championships and producing some of the greatest players in basketball history, including Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Shaquille O’Neal, and Kobe Bryant.

For more information on the history of the Lakers and their impact on Los Angeles basketball, you can visit nba.com/lakers .

The Clippers Arrive in Southern California

The arrival of the Los Angeles Clippers in Southern California is a fascinating story that began many years ago. To fully understand their journey, we must first delve into their roots as the Buffalo Braves.

Roots as the Buffalo Braves

The Buffalo Braves were founded in 1970 as an expansion team in the NBA. They played their home games in Buffalo, New York, and quickly gained a loyal fan base. However, despite their popularity, the team struggled financially and faced numerous challenges.

After just eight seasons, the Braves made the decision to relocate to San Diego, California. This move was driven by the desire for better financial stability and the potential for a larger market. Little did they know that this relocation would eventually lead them to their current home in Los Angeles.

Relocation to San Diego

Upon their arrival in San Diego in 1978, the team underwent a rebranding process and became known as the San Diego Clippers. Despite their efforts to establish themselves in their new home, the Clippers still faced financial difficulties and struggled to achieve success on the court.

During their time in San Diego, the team was known for its exciting style of play, led by standout players like Bill Walton and World B. Free. However, their on-court success did not translate into financial stability, and the team continued to face challenges both on and off the court.

Heading North to LA

In 1984, the Clippers made another significant move, this time to Los Angeles. The team hoped that a change in location would bring renewed energy and support from fans. While their early years in Los Angeles were still marked by struggles, the team slowly began to build a stronger foundation.

Over the years, the Clippers have transformed from a struggling franchise into a competitive force in the NBA. With the acquisition of star players like Blake Griffin and Chris Paul, the team has become a perennial playoff contender.

Today, the Los Angeles Clippers are widely recognized as one of the top teams in the league.

It is truly remarkable to see how the Clippers’ journey has unfolded, from their humble beginnings in Buffalo to their current status as a prominent NBA franchise in Los Angeles. This tale of resilience and perseverance serves as a testament to the power of determination and the ability to overcome adversity.

Coexisting in the LA Market

Los Angeles is a city known for its love of sports, and basketball is no exception. The city’s basketball scene is dominated by two NBA franchises: the Los Angeles Lakers and the Los Angeles Clippers. These two teams have managed to coexist in the highly competitive LA market, each with their own dedicated fan base and unique appeal.

The Built-In Lakers Fan Base

When it comes to basketball in LA, the Lakers are the team that immediately comes to mind for many fans. The Lakers have a rich history and a loyal fan base that has been cultivated over decades. With legendary players like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Kobe Bryant, the Lakers have consistently been a force to be reckoned with in the NBA.

The Lakers’ success has created a strong fan base that spans generations. From die-hard fans who have been supporting the team since the Showtime era to new fans who have been drawn in by recent championships, the Lakers have a built-in advantage when it comes to fan loyalty.

Two Teams, Two Arenas

One of the key factors that allows the Lakers and Clippers to coexist in LA is the fact that they play in different arenas. The Lakers call the iconic Staples Center home, while the Clippers play their games at the nearby Crypto.com Arena.

Having two separate arenas allows each team to create a distinct atmosphere for their games. The Staples Center is known for its electric atmosphere and has become a symbol of Lakers basketball. On the other hand, Crypto.com Arena offers a more intimate setting for Clippers games, providing fans with a different experience.

Appealing to Different Audiences

While both teams are based in the same city, they have managed to carve out their own niche and appeal to different audiences. The Lakers have traditionally been associated with Hollywood glamour and have attracted celebrity fans from the entertainment industry.

Their success and star-studded roster have made them a popular choice among fans looking for a glitzy and high-profile basketball experience.

The Clippers, on the other hand, have positioned themselves as the underdogs of LA. Despite historically being a less successful team, the Clippers have gained a dedicated fan base who resonates with their scrappy and hardworking mentality.

This has allowed them to attract fans who appreciate a team that is willing to fight against the odds.

Ongoing Rivalry and Competition for Fans

When it comes to the Los Angeles basketball scene, the competition and rivalry between the two NBA franchises, the Lakers and the Clippers, is intense. Both teams have a dedicated fan base and are constantly vying for the attention and support of the city’s basketball enthusiasts.

Sparring for Championships

The Lakers have a rich history of success, with numerous NBA championships under their belt. They have been a dominant force in the league for decades, boasting legendary players like Magic Johnson, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Kobe Bryant.

The team’s success has garnered them a massive fan base and a strong following both locally and globally.

On the other hand, the Clippers have historically been considered the underdogs of Los Angeles basketball. However, in recent years, the team has undergone a dramatic transformation with the acquisition of star players like Chris Paul, Blake Griffin, and Kawhi Leonard.

This has propelled them into the spotlight and created a new wave of fan support.

The competition for championships between the Lakers and Clippers adds fuel to the fire of their rivalry. Each team strives to outperform the other and claim the title of the best team in Los Angeles.

Notable Head-to-Head Matchups

The head-to-head matchups between the Lakers and Clippers have become highly anticipated events for basketball fans in Los Angeles. These games have the potential to be intense and closely contested, as both teams bring their best to the court.

One of the most memorable matchups between the Lakers and Clippers was on Christmas Day in 2019. The Clippers, led by Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, defeated the Lakers in a thrilling game that showcased the talent and competitiveness of both teams.

This victory gave the Clippers a psychological edge and further fueled the rivalry between the two franchises.

Another notable matchup was during the 2020 NBA playoffs when the Lakers and Clippers were both considered top contenders for the championship. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances, the matchup did not materialize, leaving fans eagerly awaiting a future showdown.

Marketing and Identity in a Shared City

With both teams residing in the same city, marketing and establishing a unique identity become crucial for success. The Lakers have the advantage of a long-standing history and a legacy as one of the most successful franchises in NBA history.

The Clippers, on the other hand, have had to work harder to carve out their own identity in a city dominated by the Lakers. They have implemented innovative marketing strategies, such as the “LA Our Way” campaign, which highlights the team’s connection to the city and its fans.

Both franchises have also made efforts to engage with the community and give back to the city of Los Angeles. This not only helps to build a positive image but also fosters a sense of loyalty and support from the fans.

What the Future Holds for the LA Teams

New arena for the clippers.

One of the most exciting developments for the LA teams is the plan for the Clippers to build their own state-of-the-art arena. Currently, the Clippers share the Staples Center with the Lakers, which has led to a sense of being the “little brother” in the city.

However, with the new arena, the Clippers will have their own home and the opportunity to create a unique identity for their franchise. The new arena is expected to be located in Inglewood, which will bring economic benefits to the area as well.

The project is still in the planning stages, but it is certainly an exciting prospect for Clippers fans and for the city of Los Angeles as a whole.

Continued Pursuit of NBA Titles

Both the Lakers and the Clippers have been successful teams in recent years, with the Lakers winning the NBA championship in 2020 and the Clippers consistently making deep playoff runs. The future looks bright for both teams, with talented rosters and dedicated fan bases.

The Lakers, led by superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis, will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in the league. The Clippers, on the other hand, have a dynamic duo in Kawhi Leonard and Paul George, and they are determined to bring a championship to the franchise.

The competition between the two teams will only add to the excitement of the NBA season in Los Angeles.

It’s worth noting that the emergence of two successful NBA teams in Los Angeles is unprecedented. Other cities like New York and Chicago have multiple teams in different sports, but Los Angeles is unique in having two NBA franchises that are both contenders.

This not only creates a fierce rivalry between the Lakers and the Clippers, but it also elevates the city’s status as a basketball mecca.

As the LA teams continue to grow and evolve, one thing is certain: the future of basketball in Los Angeles is bright. With new arenas, talented rosters, and a passionate fan base, the Lakers and the Clippers are poised to continue their success and bring even more excitement to the city.

While Los Angeles is unique in hosting two frequently competitive NBA franchises, the story of how both the Lakers and Clippers came to call LA home reflects the league’s growth into a nationwide brand over decades. For basketball to truly flourish in the second-largest US city, it took two franchises staking their claim and cultivating generations of fans. With two arena tenants, Los Angeles now benefits from double the star power and drama, and a lively basketball rivalry that shows no signs of slowing down.

Hi there, I'm Jessica, the solo traveler behind the travel blog Eye & Pen. I launched my site in 2020 to share over a decade of adventurous stories and vivid photography from my expeditions across 30+ countries. When I'm not wandering, you can find me freelance writing from my home base in Denver, hiking Colorado's peaks with my rescue pup Belle, or enjoying local craft beers with friends.

I specialize in budget tips, unique lodging spotlights, road trip routes, travel hacking guides, and female solo travel for publications like Travel+Leisure and Matador Network. Through my photography and writing, I hope to immerse readers in new cultures and compelling destinations not found in most guidebooks. I'd love for you to join me on my lifelong journey of visual storytelling!

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They spent $354,000 to build a modern ADU. Now they rent it out for $4,500 a month

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Catie Marques Teles and Scott Savarie had been looking for an apartment in Los Angeles for six months when they spotted a listing on Zillow that caught their eye.

“We thought, ‘This can’t be real,’” Teles said of the modern accessory dwelling unit in Eagle Rock, which had two bedrooms and a sparkling new kitchen with custom birch cabinets. The long driveway, a common detail in Los Angeles’ 1920s-era homes, also provided a private patio with views of the San Gabriel Mountains. “After getting ghosted more than a few times, we thought it was too good to be true.”

But the 1,000-square-foot ADU converted from a two-car garage was no hoax.

Situated behind the 1923 Spanish bungalow of architects En Jang and Jooyoung Chung of Yeh-Yeh-Yeh , the ADU was explicitly designed as a rental steps from the home the couple share with their two children, 10 and 14.

Teles, who works as a product marketer, fondly remembers the moment they realized the rental was a four-minute walk from the home of their best friends. “It was meant to be,” she said with a smile.

Architects and landlords Jooyoung Chung, left, and En Jang.

Tenants Catie Marques Teles, left, and Scott Savarie.

On the first day the ADU was listed in 2021, at least 30 to 40 people came to look at it. While most weren’t serious about renting the expensive unit, Jang and Chung found the perfect tenants — twice. After three years, the first renters moved to Michigan to be closer to family after having a baby. Then Teles and her husband, Savarie, who are both 33, came along.

“We are immigrants from South Korea and don’t have family here, so we don’t need extra space for them,” Jang said. “This was the perfect way to highlight our architectural practice and earn extra income. Both tenants are similar. They’re in their mid-30s, work from home and are passionate about design.”

Ready to build or rent out an ADU? Here’s how to win over nervous neighbors

Neighbors have reason to be nervous about ADUs. Construction, new tenants and street parking can be inconvenient. Here’s how to smooth things over before you start construction.

March 5, 2024

The architects purchased the three-bedroom home seven years ago, knowing they would eventually take advantage of state law allowing the addition of a second unit on your property. After years of ruminating, they spent about $354,000 to transform their detached two-car garage into an ADU designed specifically as a rental. It now rents for $4,500 a month. While Los Angeles’ rental market is technically cooling , it can still feel competitive. The median monthly rent for a two-bedroom house is $3,600, according to Zillow , with Eagle Rock trending slightly below at $3,250 and Culver City hovering around $4,650.

“We put a lot of thought into it,” Chung said of the ADU. “We wanted the tenants to feel like it’s their own home.”

The bathroom of the rental is minimalist, with white matte floor tile and a beige backsplash.

The primary bedroom includes a walk-in closet.

The private-feeling rental sits at the end of a long, lushly landscaped driveway composed of Turfstone paving in a herringbone pattern. The driveway can be used for parking in front, which is not an issue in the neighborhood, and outdoor living in the back. (State legislation stipulates that parking is not required in various scenarios, including when an ADU is within a half-mile of public transportation or a historic district.)

“It feels like our own home,” Teles said. “We always go out on the patio and enjoy our morning coffee. It’s such a peaceful space.”

Nix the oven? A skinny fridge? Tips on designing a tiny kitchen in your ADU

Before installing a kitchen in a tiny ADU, homeowners should assess its purpose, measure it carefully, research small-scale appliances and imagine it as a full-size kitchen.

April 22, 2024

The ADU includes a full-sized kitchen with a 30-inch Forno range and convection oven, a 32-inch Fisher & Paykel refrigerator, a built-in desk and an open-plan living and dining area overlooking the courtyard. In addition to the two bedrooms and bathroom, Jang noted that they didn’t want to “waste the corridor,” so they added storage and a stackable washer and dryer in the sun-filled hallway.

The ADU is modern and minimal, unlike the main house, which is Spanish in style. Still, it keeps a low profile from the street, and windows are strategically placed to ensure privacy from neighbors on three sides.

With an artist’s sensibility, the architects, who studied architecture in South Korea and have master’s degrees from SCI-Arc, made the most of the space, using bold geometry, including a dramatic flat roof, white tones and birch wood so “people can furnish it in any style,” Chung said.

The ADU’s most striking element is its angled roofline, which features an arresting, geometric overhang that shades the outdoor patio. Chung describes the ADU’s rough exterior coating as a “traditional Korean application mixing gravel and sand. It works like a stone and stores heat.”

The effect contributes to a well-insulated home. “It is nice and cool inside,” Teles said. “You don’t find that a lot in rentals.”

Smooth polished concrete floors with a satin finish complement the minimal palette, and a single skylight in the corridor floods the interiors with California sunshine, which Teles and Savarie, who previously lived in San Francisco and Berlin, appreciate.

Knowing storage would be an issue in the former garage, the architects spent $40,000 on millwork and built-in storage. Thanks to the ample cabinets and closets, the couple said the small space feels much bigger than the 1,500-square-foot Victorian house they previously rented in the Mission District in San Francisco. “It felt smaller because there was no storage,” Teles said. Their 1902 rental in Berlin was similar.

Shelving and storage used as bookshelves.

The ADU’s doorway design, a favorite feature of tenant Scott Savarie.

“There is chaos hidden behind all the storage,” joked Savarie, a software company designer, as he opened the cabinets in the living room to show sports equipment, suitcases and guitars hidden behind the birch plywood doors.

“We both like our home to be tidy, so the storage is fantastic,” Teles added. “We don’t even use all the storage because there is so much.”

Having lost their garage, the architects built a storage unit for themselves and installed it on the exterior of the ADU, which faces their backyard.

Looking back three years, Chung recalls the anxiety he felt the first night his original tenants moved in . “I didn’t sleep that night, thinking of all the things that could go wrong” as a landlord, he said.

Today, he appreciates the ability to address problems immediately on-site, especially after being intimately involved in the building process.

“It’s incredibly helpful to oversee a construction project in your backyard,” he said.

When asked what her favorite thing about the ADU is, Teles struggled to narrow it down. “I love how the light moves from the house,” she said. “It is very intentional and unique. I also love the efficiency of the design. We are two people, but there is so much room and space when friends come over. The clean lines are very much our aesthetic. We both need a calm, clean space.”

The couple said they like having a personal connection with their landlords on the other side of the fence.

“It’s nice to have a relationship beyond a transaction,” Teles said.

The architects feel the same way. “We recently started playing tennis together,” Chung said as they all laughed.

“We’re getting better,” Teles said. “We’re looking forward to a rematch.”

Catie Marques Teles, an interior design lover, has added her own style and pieces to the ADU rental, including outdoor chairs from Hay.

A quiet corner of the ADU’s quaint backyard.

More Los Angeles ADUs

How L.A. architects designed a 300-square-foot ADU that pulls in $1,750 a month Three rentals and an ADU? A narrow two-story in Venice makes the case for building up They turned their tiny L.A. garage into an ADU rental for steady income. Here’s how Millennials and Gen Z can’t afford homes. Is this prefab ADU a solution? How a Spanish bungalow in L.A. went from sad to sexy (Hint: There’s an ADU rental) She wanted more than a guesthouse for her sister. This tiny ADU in L.A. delivers Tetris-like ADU packs an office, pool house, music room and gym into a tiny space Tiny hideaway inspired by Richard Neutra has terrarium vibes and a rooftop deck This ADU rental with windows galore is a houseplant lover’s dream How an aging Tudor’s ADU reunited a family and brought them closer together They turned a one-car garage into a stunning ADU to house their parents

More to Read

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May 2, 2024

In L.A., thousands of newer apartments have rent caps. Tenants don’t always know.

April 29, 2024

This gorgeous Craftsman-inspired ADU in Hollywood was once a rickety garage

April 9, 2024

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Lisa Boone is a features writer for the Los Angeles Times. Since 2003, she has covered home design, gardening, parenting, houseplants, even youth sports. She is a native of Los Angeles.

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May 2-10, 2024 : A Busy Week of Flares

• Released Thursday, May 9, 2024
• Produced by:
• Scott Wiessinger

Produced VideoWatch this video on the NASA Goddard YouTube channel.Music Credit: “Halos” from the album Burning Clouds. Written and produced by Lars Leonhard. https://ultimae.bandcamp.com/track/halos

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Music Credit: “Halos” from the album Burning Clouds. Written and produced by Lars Leonhard. https://ultimae.bandcamp.com/track/halos

NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this imagery of solar flares – as seen in the bright flashes on the upper center – on May 2, 2024. The image shows a blend of 171 Angstrom and 131 Angstrom light, subsets of extreme ultraviolet light. Credit: NASA/SDO

• 5-2-2024_2000_to_5-3-2024_1034_171-131.mp4 [39.3 MB]
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Credit: NASA/SDO

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• 5-3-2024_SDO_X1pt6_Flare_171-131.jpg (4096x4096) [2.7 MB]

The Sun emitted three strong solar flares. The first flare peaked at 2:01 A.M. ET on May 5, 2024, and the second peaked at 7:54 A.M. ET on May 5, 2024. The third peaked at 2:35 A.M. ET on May 6, 2024. NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory, which watches the Sun constantly, captured an image of the event. The imagery shows 131 Angstrom light, a subset of extreme ultraviolet light. The sequence culminates wth an X4.5 flare. Credit: NASA/SDO

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NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured these images of the solar flares — as seen in the bright flashes in the left image (May 8 flare) and the right image (May 7 flare). The image shows 131 angstrom light, a subset of extreme ultraviolet light that highlights the extremely hot material in flares and which is colorized in orange. Credit: NASA/SDO

• May_7-8_2024_SDO_131_Dual_Active_Regions.mp4 [21.4 MB]
• May_7-8_2024_SDO_131_Dual_Active_Regions_bigger.gif (1000x562) [19.1 MB]

NASA’s Solar Dynamics Observatory captured this imagery of solar flares from May 7-8, 2024. The imagery shows 131 Angstrom light, a subset of extreme ultraviolet light. Credit: NASA/SDO

• May8-2024_Flares_SDO131_Center.mp4 [21.8 MB]
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• Heliophysics
• Solar Cycle
• Solar Dynamics Observatory
• Solar Flares
• Space Weather

Please give credit for this item to: NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center. However, individual items should be credited as indicated above.

• Scott Wiessinger  (KBR Wyle Services, LLC)
• Beth Anthony  (KBR Wyle Services, LLC)
• Abbey A. Interrante  (ADNET Systems, Inc.)
• Joy Ng  (KBR Wyle Services, LLC)

Data visualizer

• Tom Bridgman  (Global Science and Technology, Inc.)

Release date

This page was originally published on Thursday, May 9, 2024. This page was last updated on Friday, May 10, 2024 at 6:08 PM EDT.

• Heliophysics Breaking News

Continued Strong Solar Flare Activity: May 10-11, 2024

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News | Have questions on LA Metro transit line in…

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News | Have questions on LA Metro transit line in Sepulveda Pass? Attend the meetings

Meetings on may 11, may 13 and may 14 will answer questions on monorail vs heavy rail options.

Will it be done with an overhead monorail or underground heavy rail? Where would the stations be?

Residents, business people and community groups from two highly populated regions of Los Angeles County can offer suggestions, make general comments and ask these and other questions at three upcoming meetings about the most ambitious public transit project in the history of L.A. County.

The meetings are part of the data collection process for the development of a draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for what is officially called the Sepulveda Transit Corridor Project. That key document is expected to be completed in early spring 2025, said Metro. Ultimately, the LA Metro Board will determine the preferred alternative, route, station alignments — and updated cost estimates. The project completion date is estimated between 2033-2035, according to Metro.

Metro is considering six configurations and routes, either by a monorail (alternatives 1-3) or underground heavy rail (alternatives 4-6) for what would become the first transit project to connect the San Fernando Valley with L.A.’s Westside, offering an alternative to driving the busy 405 Freeway.

LA Metro says this round of community meetings will focus on the monorail alternatives, and specifically wants to hear from the public on the issue of whether or not to eliminate Alternative 2, which proposes an aerial monorail within the corridor of the 405 Freeway plus an underground automated people mover from Wilshire Boulevard to UCLA.

Here are the meeting dates, times and locations:

Saturday, May 11  – 10 a.m.-12 noon. Location: Marvin Braude Center, 6262 Van Nuys Blvd., Van Nuys, 91401. Parking available under the building, with entrance off Sylvan Street. Transit options: Metro 233 and 761 bus lines serve Van Nuys Boulevard. The Metro G Line (Orange) Busway’s Van Nuys Station is located three blocks to the south.

Monday, May 13 — Noon to 1 p.m. Virtual meeting. Zoom Link: https://qrco.de/Sepulveda-May13 . Call in: 1-669- 900-6833. Webinar ID: 848 5610 6007.

Tuesday, May 14 — 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Location: Westwood United Methodist Church,10497 Wilshire Blvd.,  Los Angeles, 90024. Parking available under the Belmont Village Senior Living Westwood, just east of the church. Transit options: Metro 20 and 720 bus lines serve Wilshire Boulevard.

Project details, options

The project would have two end points: the north end would be at the Metrolink/Amtrak station at Van Nuys Boulevard and Saticoy Street, while the south end would connect to the Metro E (formerly Exposition) light rail line, which runs east-west from East Los Angeles to Santa Monica. The Sepulveda project would either use an aerial Disney-esque monorail, or an underground subway similar to those running in downtown Los Angeles. Or a mixture of the two.

Two private companies were signed by Metro to prepare the concepts and designs. Los Angeles SkyRail Express (LASRE) is developing plans to build the monorail, while Sepulveda Transit Corridor Partners, including Bechtel Development Company, Meridiam Infrastructure and American Triple I Partners, would build the heavy rail.

“We are happy that Metro is doing these meeting as the more information that is shared about the project, the better it is for everyone,” wrote Mark Waier, a spokesperson for SkyRail in an emailed response.

The six alternatives being considered and examined in the EIR process are:

Alternative 1: (15.3 miles) Monorail with aerial alignment on 405 Freeway corridor and electric bus connection to UCLA.

Alternative 2: (15.8 miles) Monorail with aerial alignment on 405 Freeway corridor and underground automated people mover connection to UCLA campus. However, LASRE has asked that this option no longer be considered, Metro reported. Metro will ask about this alternative and its viability at the meetings.

Alternative 3: (16.2 miles) Monorail with aerial alignment on 405 Freeway corridor and underground alignment between Getty Center and Wilshire Boulevard. This would allow for an underground station at UCLA.

Alternative 4: (14 miles) Heavy rail with underground alignment south of Ventura Boulevard and aerial alignment generally along Sepulveda Boulevard in the San Fernando Valley, with four aerial stations.

Alternative 5: (14 miles) Heavy rail with underground alignment including along Sepulveda Boulevard in the San Fernando Valley.

Alternative 6: (12.6 miles) Heavy rail with underground alignment including along Van Nuys Boulevard in the San Fernando Valley and a southern terminus station on Bundy Drive.

Alternatives 3, 4, 5 and 6 all include an underground station on the UCLA campus at Gateway Plaza.

Removing Alternative 2

LASRE confirmed it has asked LA Metro to remove Alternative 2 from the list of options.

“Monorail Alternative 2 was able to meet most of the basic objectives of the project but does not appear to avoid or reduce significant impacts and may have additional impacts on cultural resources not associated with Monorail Alternatives 1 and 3. Metro reviewed the LASRE request and determined that from an independent, environmental perspective, retaining Alternative 2 is not warranted,” LASRE wrote in a statement to its stakeholders, Waier said.

If Metro rejects Alternative 2, that would leave two monorail options. Only Alternative 3 would have a direct connection at UCLA. All the underground rail options (4, 5, 6) have stations at UCLA.

“Yes, Metro should accept SkyRail’s offer to eliminate Alternative 2. It provides no advantages and would be as expensive as the heavy rail alternatives. Plus it doesn’t provide a direct connection to UCLA,” said Coby King, a public affairs consultant on transportation issues with clients at Metro, on Thursday, May 10.

He said that LASRE wants this option off the list because it includes building a people mover, which he said are very expensive.

UCLA has not chosen an alternative but strongly supports a station on the UCLA campus. UCLA is the fourth-largest employer in Los Angeles County, with about 80,000 people on campus every day. Many community and environmental groups support the underground rail alternatives, including Streets For All, Sierra Club, Climate Resolve, LA Forward and other nonprofit groups, while opposing the monorail.

The Sherman Oaks Homeowners Association (SOHA), which supports a monorail over heavy rail underground, had preferred Alternative 2, which may no longer be considered. The group has tussled with Metro over what it perceives as a lack of information on the project. 

Metro should provide more information on what its officials will disclose at the meetings, said Bob Anderson, SOHA’s vice president and transportation committee chair. Metro responded to the group, saying it continues to provide information but cost estimates won’t be available until next year. 

“They will only get good feedback if they give detailed information, which they never do,” said Anderson. “So the meeting looks like it will be another ‘dog and pony show.’ ”

For more details on the project, go to metro.net/Sepulvedacorridor, send an email to the project team at [email protected] or call 213-922-7375.

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ABC7 Solutions

Free mental health apps provide 24/7 help for teens and young children across california.

LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- May is Mental Health Awareness month , and young people are in a mental health crisis.

The CDC says one in three high school girls have seriously considered taking their own life and 41% of young people with anxiety go untreated.

Two apps now available across California provide 24/7 access to care for free, hoping to keep daily stress from becoming much more.

"Really what we're doing with these apps through the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative is trying to get access to care in kids' hands - where they need it, when they need it and meeting kids literally where they're at," explained Autumn Boylan, the deputy director for California Department of Health Care Services - Office of Strategic Partnerships.

DHCS released two platforms in January. Soluna is indented for young people between 13-25 and BrightLife Kids is designed for young children and parents like Kimberly Voorhis to use together.

"It's given me a really cool opportunity to kind of model for my kids the importance of taking care of their mental health," Voorhis said.

Families with multiple children like Voorhis know each child is unique in their own way and have specific needs. BrightLife Kids offers age-tailored videos and podcasts for the children, but also access to behavioral health coaches.

"It's just really encouraging to have somebody on your team who can help break that down for you and give you a place to talk about your journey of parenting in a way that really leaves you feeling empowered and equipped to help continue to lead your family," Voorhis pointed out.

Soluna users are anonymous and receive self-guided support through interactive content, community forums and also chat-based, one-on-one coaching.

"There's this whole section...this whole population that's dealing with day-to-day stress, and they don't always have the tools and the resources and know how to deal with that, so that's what Soluna offers them. All of these really kind of fun interactive ways to be educated and empowered and more resilient about your own mental health," said Dr. Beth Pausic, the VP of Clinical Excellence at Kooth Digital Health.

Parents might be anxious about a child finding mental health guidance through an anonymous online forum, but these apps teach coping skills for everyday problems we all face and both include links to crisis support if needed.

"There are not nearly enough child psychiatrists in the state to meet the demand, and what we've provided through these apps is an option and a place where young people and parents and caregivers can turn to get started on that health and wellness journey," Boylan said.

Dr. Pausic added: "We assess any risk on the site... we will reach out to the service user with resources and in cases where the risk is a little bit more urgent, we will engage with them and we will refer them to external resources when appropriate."

If you or someone you know is in emotional distress or considering suicide, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline .

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Two Randomized Trials of Low-Dose Calcium Supplementation in Pregnancy

Affiliation.

• 1 From St. John's Research Institute (P.D., R.F.), St. John's Medical College (T.T., J.M.R., A.V.K.), and Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (N.B., R.S.) - all in Bangalore, India; the Africa Academy for Public Health (A.M., S.M.K., M.M.S.), Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (M.B., A.B.P.), Dar es Salaam Regional Medical Office of Health (N.O.S.), and Ifakara Health Institute (H.M.M.) - all in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania; the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health (C.R.S., M.W., N.P., C.P.D., W.W.F.), Harvard Medical School (M.W., C.P.D.), and Boston Children's Hospital (C.P.D.) - all in Boston; Columbia University Medical Center, New York (B.J.W.); and the University of South Carolina, Columbia (N.P.).
• PMID: 38197817
• PMCID: PMC10921922
• DOI: 10.1056/NEJMoa2307212

Background: The World Health Organization recommends 1500 to 2000 mg of calcium daily as supplementation, divided into three doses, for pregnant persons in populations with low dietary calcium intake in order to reduce the risk of preeclampsia. The complexity of the dosing scheme, however, has led to implementation barriers.

Methods: We conducted two independent randomized trials of calcium supplementation, in India and Tanzania, to assess the noninferiority of a 500-mg daily dose to a 1500-mg daily dose of calcium supplementation. In each trial, the two primary outcomes were preeclampsia and preterm birth, and the noninferiority margins for the relative risks were 1.54 and 1.16, respectively.

Results: A total of 11,000 nulliparous pregnant women were included in each trial. The cumulative incidence of preeclampsia was 3.0% in the 500-mg group and 3.6% in the 1500-mg group in the India trial (relative risk, 0.84; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.68 to 1.03) and 3.0% and 2.7%, respectively, in the Tanzania trial (relative risk, 1.10; 95% CI, 0.88 to 1.36) - findings consistent with the noninferiority of the lower dose in both trials. The percentage of live births that were preterm was 11.4% in the 500-mg group and 12.8% in the 1500-mg group in the India trial (relative risk, 0.89; 95% CI, 0.80 to 0.98), which was within the noninferiority margin of 1.16; in the Tanzania trial, the respective percentages were 10.4% and 9.7% (relative risk, 1.07; 95% CI, 0.95 to 1.21), which exceeded the noninferiority margin.

Conclusions: In these two trials, low-dose calcium supplementation was noninferior to high-dose calcium supplementation with respect to the risk of preeclampsia. It was noninferior with respect to the risk of preterm live birth in the trial in India but not in the trial in Tanzania. (Funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and others; ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT03350516 ; Clinical Trials Registry-India number, CTRI/2018/02/012119; and Tanzania Medicines and Medical Devices Authority Trials Registry number, TFDA0018/CTR/0010/5).

Copyright © 2024 Massachusetts Medical Society.

Publication types

• Clinical Trial
• Equivalence Trial
• Calcium* / adverse effects
• Calcium* / therapeutic use
• Dietary Supplements* / adverse effects
• Infant, Newborn
• Pre-Eclampsia* / epidemiology
• Pre-Eclampsia* / prevention & control
• Premature Birth* / epidemiology
• Premature Birth* / prevention & control
• Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic

Associated data

• ClinicalTrials.gov/NCT03350516
• CTRI/CTRI/2018/02/012119

Grants and funding

• INV-006980/GATES/Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation/United States
• P30 DK040561/DK/NIDDK NIH HHS/United States
• 201910MFE-430812-197459/CAPMC/ CIHR/Canada