Los Angeles, California: The Best 2-Day Itinerary
L.A. L.A. BABY! If you’re a Jonas Brothers fan like me, you can’t help but sing that when thinking about Los Angeles, California. The lively city is home to some of the top experiences in the country. From Beverly Hills to Venice Beach & everything in between, there is so much to see…and it’s quite easy to feel overwhelmed when planning a Cali trip.
I wanted to see as much as possible on my first trip to LA, including local + touristy activities. Although, I quickly realized that Los Angeles is massive. A proper itinerary is crucial so that time is not wasted criss-crossing all over the city. Follow my guide below if you are seeking to make the most out of your 2 days in Los Angeles, California!
Day 1 – Beverly Hills, Hollywood & More
Your first day in Los Angeles will be busy but likely the best day of your entire trip. I grouped these activities together based on their location. You could easily split Day 1’s activities into two days if your vacation time is flexible. However, my time was limited, so I planned accordingly.
Prepare for a day full of iconic California experiences that cannot be missed!
Rodeo Drive (Morning)
Walking through the luxurious streets of Beverly Hills is the perfect way to start your first day in California. If you need a little fuel before you shop, head to Alfred Coffee. Not only is this cafe Instagrammable with its neon sign, but the coffee will leave you wanting more!
After breakfast, walk to Rodeo Drive, known for its collection of high-end designer and boutique shops. The three blocks of Rodeo Drive make up the second most expensive shopping district in the nation. Even if you do not plan on purchasing a designer item, simply meandering the streets of Rodeo Drive is quite experience. During your exploration of Rodeo Drive, be sure to snap a photo of the famous Via Rodeo street sign.
In a way, the neutral and ornate buildings remind me of Paris, so I instantly fell in love with this portion of LA.
For those who don’t plan on shopping much, I suggest allotting 30-45 minutes to walk around Rodeo Drive. This will leave you with plenty of time to visit a museum before lunch. However, if you don’t care to spend time inside a museum, skip the next experience and shop ’til you drop.
Address: Click here
Website: https://rodeodrive-bh.com/
Hours: Public sidewalks; shops have various opening/closing times
LACMA (Late Morning)
After Rodeo Drive, visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, otherwise known as “LACMA.” According to lacma.org, LACMA is the largest art museum in the western United States, with a collection of more than 142,000 objects that illuminate 6,000 years of artistic expression across the globe.
One of the main reasons that California visitors flock to this museum is to witness the forest of city street lights known as Urban Light. Artist Chris Burden created this public art display with 202 restored cast iron antique street lamps. Both in the daytime and the night, the unique installation is worth a visit. Tickets do not need to be purchased to see Urban Light since it is positioned along the main road.
If you decide to tour the LACMA, plan to spend 1-2 hours in the museum. As of now, tickets must be reserved online in advance as walk-ups are not accommodated.
Address: 5905 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90036
Website: https://www.lacma.org/
Admission: Adults usually $25; Click here
The Grove (Lunch)
Known for its high-end shopping and dining, The Grove is a place worth not just seeing but experiencing. You have countless options for lunch at this world-renowned open air shopping center. With stores like Anthropologie, Apple, Michael Kors, Coach, Zara, and Nordstrom, you will easily be able shop for multiple hours. But, you still have a lot to see today, so consider spending just an hour or two for lunch + shopping.
Address: 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Website: https://thegrovela.com/
Admission: Free
Hollywood Walk of Fame (Afternoon)
On your first trip to Los Angeles, how could you not see the Hollywood Walk of Fame? Walking the famous sidewalks is a one of the most iconic tourist experiences in California. It is fun to hunt for popular names and take pictures with the stars of your favorite celebrities.
While you should definitely experience the Walk of Fame, I think one quick visit is all you need. The area is buzzing with activity…however, the vibe there is sort of trashy. I absolutely hate saying that, because I feel like every place in America has the potential to be clean and beautiful.
For those who have been to Times Square in New York City, the Walk of Fame reminded me of that. Surprisingly, I feel like Times Square was a bit nicer and safer than this area. Overall, you will have to weigh the pros and cons of being able to say, “I’ve walked the Hollywood Walk of Fame.” I personally am glad I saw it but don’t really care to ever return 🙂
Address: 6901 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Website: https://walkoffame.com/
Admission: Free
Hollywood Sign (Late Afternoon)
Ahhhh…what an amazing site. Witnessing the Hollywood sign is something each and every Los Angeles visitor should do on their first trip. There are a few ways to experience the Hollywood sign. People sometimes choose to hike multiple hours/miles up to the sign itself, where they receive views of LA and a unique perspective of the back of the Hollywood sign. Others, like myself, don’t have time to hike. To save your steps, head to Lake Hollywood Park for the BEST views!
While Lake Hollywood Park is no secret among tourists, I still felt like I got to experience Los Angeles, California like a local. I could have sat and watched the many locals play with their dogs for hours. It was a gorgeous day and you can easily find a shady spot among the trees. Enjoy the spectacular views with zero hike involved!
Address: 3160 Canyon Lake Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068
Website: https://www.laparks.org/park/lake-hollywood
Admission: Free
Sunset at Griffith Observatory (Evening)
Hands down, the Griffith Observatory was my favorite experience in California. Panoramic views…gorgeous sunsets…the Hollywood sign…Grecian-inspired architecture…and more. It just doesn’t get better than this!
To make the most of your trek up the mountain (don’t worry, you can drive), I highly suggest timing your visit to take place during sunset. Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the sunset time so that you can watch the sun go down in all of its glory.
There is more to this site than just amazing views of Los Angeles. Take some time to enjoy the actual Observatory! The 290-seat Samuel Oschin Planetarium theater is the finest planetarium in the world and has wowed visitors for over 85 years.
Getting to Griffith Observatory: This can be a little tricky, but luckily, you have many different options. There is free parking in the area around the Greek Theatre if you don’t mind walking around a mile uphill to the Observatory (there are nice views along the way). To avoid an uphill walk, you can pay to park at the Observatory. Alternatively, you can take the DASH Observatory/Los Feliz public bus service from the Vermont/Sunset Metro Red Line Station to the Observatory. For a bigger price tag, you can opt for Uber/Lyft and be dropped off right at the Observatory.
For details such as parking lot maps, pricing, opening/closing times, and more, click here for the most updated transportation info.
Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
Website: https://griffithobservatory.org/
Admission: Free for the views; Observatory requires tickets
Day 2 – Venice & Santa Monica Pier
Day 1 of California was packed full of exciting activities, but now it’s time to relax at the beach. Prepare to witness some of the state’s most iconic landmarks, like the Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, & more!
Venice Canals (Morning)
Get a little taste of Europe within the heart of Los Angeles. You cannot miss the Venice Canal Historic District during your trip to California. We highly recommend a peaceful morning stroll along the picturesque canals. From the colorful houses to the many arched bridges, this residential suburb of L.A. is worth a few minutes of your day. There are many photo ops along the sidewalks, and you might even be able to strike up a conversation with a local homeowner who lives on the canal.
Address: Venice, CA 90292
Admission: Free
Abbot Kinney Blvd (Late Morning/Lunch)
An Uber driver actually recommended Abbot Kinney Boulevard, which turned out to be a pleasant surprise! It is a mile-long road lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries located in the southern part of Venice. At less than a 10-minute walk from the canals, this is the next perfect stop to your day. Every shop is Instagrammable and each restaurant is aesthetic. It’s a great area to purchase gifts and souvenirs.
It might be getting close to lunchtime after shopping, so I recommend choosing a place along Abbot Kinney for a delicious meal.
Address: Los Angeles, CA
Admission: Free
Venice Beach (Afternoon)
Venice Beach is funky, lively, and a bit crazy – but, it’s famous! Witness the beautiful “Venice” street sign and capture those beach + mountain landscape photos. Venice Beach is wild, and by wild, I mean slightly sensory-overload. You’ll find street performers, athletes, skateboarders, rollerbladers, shop owners, blaring music, tourists, beachgoers, and pretty much anyone else you can think. It really is a fun environment and perfect for people watching. I quickly realized that the beach is actually quite stunning.
Check out the large skate park and Muscle Beach to see athletes in their element. Or, walk onto the Venice Boardwalk for relaxing ocean views. There is a TON to do within the colorful area!
Honest opinion: Other than the beach itself, this area is more suited for teenagers & older. It is quite hectic and dirty. If you are hesitant about taking small children here, I suggest skipping Venice Beach & visiting to Malibu or something more peaceful.
Address: Los Angeles, CA
Admission: Free
Santa Monica Pier (Late Afternoon/Evening)
The unfortunate ending of a wonderful trip to California is best spent at the Santa Monica Pier. Aside from the gorgeous sunset, it contains a small amusement park (aka Pacific Park), concession stands, and areas for views and fishing. The pier is exciting for people of all ages.
The Pacific Park on Santa Monica Pier is free, meaning you can come and go as you please. However, rides and attractions are priced individually and range in price from $5-10. Save more and ride all day with an Unlimited Ride Wristband. You can purchase tickets online or directly at the ticket booth.
The beach is always busy, so arrive early to snag the best spot. Luckily, there really is no bad spot on the beach…anywhere you sit will provide beautiful views of the beach and the pier!
Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Website: https://www.santamonicapier.org/
Admission: Free except for individual rides
Overall
I hope you enjoyed this guide for the best 2-day itinerary in Los Angeles, California. No matter what you do, you are sure to have an unforgettable time.
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