Los Angeles 2 Day Itinerary

2-Day Los Angeles Itinerary

This itinerary focuses on iconic LA experiences, highlighting popular attractions and offering flexibility for your interests.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget: Consider hostels in areas like Hollywood or Santa Monica for a social and affordable stay.

  • Mid-Range: Look into hotels in vibrant neighborhoods such as West Hollywood, Silverlake, or Los Feliz.

  • Luxury: For a more upscale experience, book a room in a hotel with stunning views, like those in Beverly Hills or along the coast.

Day 1: Hollywood Glamour and Beachfront Bliss

Morning:

  • Hollywood Walk of Fame (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM):

    • Start your day at the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame. Look for stars belonging to your favorite celebrities, actors, musicians, and directors.
    • Things to do: Take photos with the stars, visit the TCL Chinese Theatre with its celebrity handprints and footprints, explore the Hollywood Museum (optional)

  • Lunch: Enjoy a casual meal at In-N-Out Burger (a classic LA experience!).

Afternoon:

  • Explore Hollywood:

    • Stroll along Hollywood Boulevard and take in the sights like the Dolby Theatre (home of the Oscars!), Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and the TCL Chinese Theatre.
    • Lunch suggestion: Grab a burger at the Original In-N-Out Burger on the corner of La Cienega Blvd & Century Blvd for a taste of the original menu.

  • Hollywood & Highland Center (Optional): Enjoy a classic Hollywood experience with a delicious meal and explore the vibrant atmosphere of this shopping and entertainment complex.

  • Dinner: For a unique and flavorful dinner, try the Korean BBQ tacos at Kogi BBQ, a popular food truck in LA.

Evening:

  • Catch a show at the Laugh Factory: Immerse yourself in the heart of LA’s comedy scene (8:00 PM - 10:00 PM)
  • Explore the Sunset Strip: Enjoy the nightlife and music venues of the legendary Sunset Strip.

Things to know:

  • Hollywood Boulevard: It’s a fun, but crowded and touristy area. Be prepared for lots of people and souvenir shops!

  • Transportation:

    • Public Transport: The LA Metro is a good option for getting around, especially on the Red Line, which runs along the heart of Hollywood.
    • Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are readily available in LA.

Other things of interest:

  • Griffith Observatory: Offers stunning views of the city and the stars.

  • Things to do: Visit the observatory for a glimpse at the Griffith Park skyline, explore the Griffith Observatory’s exhibits on astronomy and space exploration.

  • Hollywood Sign Hike: Hike up to the Hollywood Sign for an unforgettable photo opportunity with the iconic Hollywood sign.

Other options:

  • Griffith Park: Enjoy the beautiful scenery and trails of this iconic park.

  • Griffith Park: Explore Griffith Park’s diverse landscape, from hiking paths through lush forests to the tranquil oasis of the Griffith Observatory.

  • Hollywood Museum: Dive into the history of Hollywood with a visit to the Hollywood Museum (consider the Hollywood Forever Cemetery tour for its historical significance and celebrity gravesites)

  • Griffith Park Hiking Trails: Explore the numerous trails in this sprawling park, each offering unique views and experiences.

Day 2: Downtown Delights and Coastal Adventures

  • Morning:

    • Start with a visit to the Farmers Market: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local scene, sample fresh produce, and enjoy the atmosphere.
    • Explore Grand Central Market: This historic food hall is a must-visit for any foodie.

  • Experience the LA Public Library: A fascinating architectural gem with beautiful murals and gardens.

  • Lunch: Grab a bite from one of the many food vendors in the area, like Tacos Tu Madre or Belcampo Meat Co.

    • Things to do:
      • Griffith Observatory: Explore the history of astronomy and the cosmos.
      • The Grand Central Market: Discover diverse culinary offerings from local chefs and artisans.

  • Afternoon: Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at the Griffith Observatory or exploring the Grand Central Market.

  • Things to do:

    • Explore the California Science Center: This museum offers interactive exhibits on science and technology.
    • Experience the wonders of the Griffith Observatory:
      • Discover the history of the iconic landmark
      • Take in the breathtaking views of the Los Angeles skyline from the hilltop location

  • Visit the Getty Museum: Enjoy the world-renowned art collection, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens.

  • Explore the Getty Center:

    • Griffith Observatory: Enjoy the panoramic views of the city.

Things to do:

  • Enjoy the museum’s renowned collections: Discover the diverse exhibits showcasing art, science, and history, with something for everyone from dinosaurs to space shuttles.
  • Visit the California Science Center:
  • Explore the science behind the exhibits: Learn about the universe, physics, and astronomy through interactive displays.

Things to do:

  • Take a tour of the museum’s exhibits: Discover the history and stories behind the artifacts.

  • Experience the variety of food options: From classic burgers at the In-N-Out Burger truck parked nearby (a must-do for any visitor!), to diverse cuisines in the surrounding area, explore the culinary delights that Los Angeles has to offer!

  • Enjoy the architecture: Experience the unique and captivating architectural design.

  • Explore the city’s cultural diversity: The Grand Central Market is a great place to experience different flavors of LA.

  • Enjoy the beauty of the Getty Villa, a museum showcasing ancient Greek, Roman, and Etruscan art and artifacts.

  • Things to do: Enjoy the beauty of the gardens and explore the museum’s diverse collection.

Things to Do (Continued):

  • Visit the Getty Museum: Immerse yourself in the vibrant history of the Getty Center, a stunning museum showcasing a wide range of artwork from ancient times to the modern era.

Transportation:

  • Public transportation is available but limited, especially near the Villa. Driving and ride-sharing are convenient options.

  • Explore the California Science Center: Immerse yourself in the world of science and technology.

  • Things to Do (Continued):

  • Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Getty Museum’s architecture.

  • Visit Griffith Park and enjoy its diverse attractions.

Things to do:

  • Explore the city’s history and culture through the Getty Museum’s extensive collection of exhibits.

  • Explore the Getty Villa, a museum dedicated to showcasing art and artifacts from the ancient world, with beautiful gardens and a focus on ancient Roman and Greek architecture and culture.

  • Visit the “Museum Courtyard”: Enjoy the stunning architecture and ambiance of the Getty Villa.

  • Explore the Griffith Observatory exhibit: Immerse yourself in the history of the Getty Museum, which houses a collection of artifacts from ancient civilizations.

  • Enjoy the Getty Villa’s gardens: Explore the beautiful gardens surrounding the California Science Center

Things to do:

  • Enjoy the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): Enjoy the unique and captivating exhibits showcasing art history and diverse cultural expressions.
  • Explore the Griffith Observatory in the Getty Villa’s collection.

Enjoy a day at the beach:

  • Explore the vibrant culture of the museum’s “Observation Deck” area, which offers stunning views of the city.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Planetarium for a show: Explore the Griffith Observatory
  • Enjoy the variety of exhibits at the Getty Villa. Explore the Getty Museum’s architectural marvels and enjoy the beauty of the California landscape.

Things to Do (Continued):

  • Visit the Griffith Observatory, the Getty Center, or other nearby attractions.

Transportation:

  • Driving: While driving is an option for accessing the museums, it’s often easier and more enjoyable to take a taxi or rideshare service.
  • Explore the “Getty Villa” website:

https://www.getty.edu/museum/

  • Explore the California Science Center, The Getty Museum, or the Natural History Museum.

  • The LA County Museum of Art (LACMA) and its exhibits are accessible by car, public transportation, and bike.

  • Things to do:

  • Explore the “Etruscan Treasures” exhibit: Enjoy a fascinating journey through the art and artifacts of ancient Etruria.

Enjoy a sunset stroll:

  • Visit the Griffith Observatory’s gardens: Enjoy the tranquility of the Japanese Garden or the Getty Villa Gardens.

  • Enjoy the views: Explore the museum’s “Gardens and Grounds”

  • Explore the museums: Enjoy a diverse range of art, from ancient Greek and Roman artifacts to modern art installations.

Transportation (Continued)

  • Rideshare: Consider using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft to reach the Los Angeles area, as they often have limited parking options for visitors.

  • Enjoy the beauty of the “Getty Villa” gardens:

  • Enjoy the beauty of the “Griffith Observatory” exhibit: Explore the history of the universe and science through the exhibits at the https://www.getty.edu/museum

Other things to do:

  • Enjoy a picnic in the picturesque

  • Enjoy a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH):

  • Explore the beaches and coastal towns of Malibu or Santa Monica.

Remember to:

  • Check the museum hours and admission fees:

  • Enjoy the natural beauty of the “California” landscape: Enjoy the vibrant “California Science Center” exhibit and visit the nearby Griffith Observatory: enjoy a unique experience with exhibits showcasing science and the arts.

  • Consider using public transportation:

  • Enjoy the variety of activities at the museum, like visiting the “Pacific Coast Highway” to see the scenic views.

Remember:

  • The Griffith Observatory, a symbol of Los Angeles’s cultural identity, is located in a beautiful area with many attractions and museums nearby.

  • Enjoy the breathtaking views: Enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Ocean and Malibu’s stunning coastline.

  • Enjoy the diverse range of exhibits at the Getty Museum.

  • Visit the “Getty Villa” gardens:

  • Explore the “Japanese Garden”

  • Visit the https://www.getanticipate: Enjoy the beauty of nature and learn about Japanese culture and art through the lens of a beautifully designed garden.

  • Bring your own bike:

  • Consider renting a bike for a leisurely ride:

  • The https://www.getty.edu/visit/villa

  • Enjoy a variety of activities: Enjoy the “Getty Villa’s”

  • Explore the museum

  • Visit the “Getty Villa” gardens:

  • Explore the “Japanese Garden” (at the Getty Center).

  • Learn about the “Getty Villa” and its history:

  • The Getty Center offers a variety of exhibitions throughout the year. It’s a great place to explore the history of art, architecture and culture.

  • Enjoy the stunning views:** The “Getty Villa” is located in a beautiful setting overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Other things to do:

  • Explore the Getty Center:

  • Enjoy the gardens:

  • Visit the “California” Science Center:

  • Explore the beaches and coastal towns of Malibu and the surrounding areas.

  • Enjoy the gardens at the https://www.griffithobservatory.org/ (like the “Getty Villa Gardens”)

  • Explore the Pacific Coast Highway (“PCH”)

  • Enjoy a visit to the “Santa Monica Pier” with its amusement park and classic arcade games.

Day 1: Exploring Griffith Observatory

  • Enjoy the views:

  • The “Santa Monica Pier” is a historic landmark with an amusement park, shops, restaurants, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.

  • Visit the “PCH” Arcade:

  • Explore the “Pacific Coast Highway”

  • Enjoy the museum’s exhibits:

Day 2: Exploring the “Getty” Gardens

  • Enjoy a relaxing morning at the “Museum” grounds, exploring the https://www.getty.edu/museum/ and enjoying its unique beauty.

  • Enjoy a relaxing afternoon:

  • Explore the “California” gardens and enjoy a variety of activities:

    • Visit the beautiful gardens at the Getty Center (or explore the stunning beaches and visit the museums in the area)

  • Enjoy the beauty of the “Getty Villa”.

Enjoy the “Santa Monica” pier and its many attractions.

  • Explore the “Getty Villa” for a glimpse of history:

  • Explore the Santa Monica Mountains:

  • Explore the “beautiful gardens” at the “Getty Villa”, showcasing ancient Greek and Roman influences:

  • Enjoy the beautiful gardens surrounding the “Getty Center”, which are open to the public.

  • Visit the “Getty Villa” gardens:

Remember, these are just ideas for a 2-day trip. You can customize your itinerary based on your own interests and preferences!