How to Spend 2 days in Los Angeles, California

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Planning a weekend in Los Angeles or squeezing a quick trip into your schedule? I’ve put together this itinerary based on my experiences to help you make the most out of your time in the “City of Angels.”

Los Angeles, with its iconic Hollywood sign, beautiful sandy beaches, bustling city center, world-class theme parks, fascinating exhibits, amazing food, vibrant nightlife, and gorgeous hiking trails, truly lives up to its reputation as the entertainment capital of the United States.

There’s so much to see and do that you’ll never be bored, no matter how long you stay. If you’re short on time, follow my plan for what to do in Los Angeles in just 2 days.

Let my experiences help you make the most of your own Los Angeles adventure!

Day 1

Morning: Griffith Observatory and Spot the Hollywood Sign

One of my favorite photographic sights in Los Angeles is the iconic Griffith Observatory, which offers fantastic panoramic views of the city and the ocean.

Perched on the southern slope of Mount Hollywood in Griffith Park, the observatory sits about 1,134 feet above sea level. It’s a must-visit for astronomy enthusiasts and is actually one of the most visited observatories in the world.

Thanks to its elevated location, Griffith Observatory is also the perfect spot to catch a close view of the famous Hollywood Sign. If you’re up for a bit of adventure, there are plenty of scenic hiking trails winding through Griffith Park.

Opening Hours:

• Weekend: 10 AM to 10 PM
• Weekdays: 12 noon to 10 PM (closed on Mondays)

Entry Fees:

• Admission is free. There’s a small fee if you want to catch a Planetarium show inside.

For extra convenience, you can book a Griffith Park tour, a hike, or a Hollywood Hills exploration in advance.

Afternoon: Stroll through Rodeo Drive in Beverley Hills, Lunch at Farmer’s Market

Another experience I highly recommend adding to your Los Angeles itinerary is taking a leisurely walk along Rodeo Drive. This two-mile-long shopping district is famous for its high-end luxury stores like Prada, Armani, Gucci, Tiffany’s, Coco Chanel, Harry Winston, and Cartier.

Even if you’re just window shopping, you’ll love admiring the elegant architecture and the vibrant atmosphere. But if you’re feeling splurgy, shopping here is truly a treat!

If you’re curious about Hollywood star homes, I also suggest joining a well-organized Celebrity Homes tour. You’ll get to see the impressive exteriors of mansions belonging to stars like Tom Cruise, Leonardo DiCaprio, Elvis Presley, and many others. These homes are strikingly beautiful and fascinating to see in person.

When it’s time for a meal, my top recommendation is the Farmers Market, less than a ten-minute drive from Rodeo Drive. This open-air marketplace is packed with restaurants serving a variety of cuisines.

I personally love Fritzi Coop for their delicious fried chicken sandwiches and Pampas Grill for the Brazilian BBQ and buffet.

Evening: Hollywood Walk Of Fame

One of my favorite ways to spend an evening in Los Angeles is strolling along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This iconic sidewalk stretches across 15 blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and displays the names of over 2,690 stars. I love searching for my favorite celebrities and snapping photos with them. You even have to wait for your turn for the most popular ones!

If the Walk of Fame isn’t your thing, don’t worry. Hollywood Boulevard has plenty more to offer. My must-visit recommendations include the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not, the historic Chinese Theatre, and the famous Dolby Theatre. There’s truly something for everyone to enjoy in this legendary neighborhood.

Day 2

Morning: Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

Whenever I visit Los Angeles, I always make time for the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), which is the largest art museum in the western United States. LACMA’s diverse and incredible art collections never fail to impress me, and although it’s impossible to see everything in a single day, I recommend focusing on a few main highlights.

The first thing that always catches my eye is Chris Burden’s Urban Light. A stunning collection of vintage street lamps that’s incredibly Instagram-worthy. I never skip a photo here!

Another must-see is Levitated Mass, a massive rock balanced over a walkway, making for another unforgettable photo opportunity.

If you’re interested in Japanese culture, don’t miss the Pavilion of Japanese Art, which showcases a fascinating variety of Japanese works.

And if you’re traveling with kids, the Boone Children’s Gallery is a fantastic spot for creative, hands-on fun.

LACMA truly offers something for everyone and is one of my top recommendations for art lovers visiting Los Angeles.

Afternoon – Evening: Venice Beach, Sunset at Santa Monica

One of my favorite ways to spend an afternoon in Los Angeles is soaking up the sun at beautiful Venice Beach. I love strolling along the vibrant Venice Boardwalk, where you’ll find everything from spas and restaurants to quirky stores, cafes, and iconic fitness centers.

For a special treat, I always try to stop by the High Rooftop Lounge at Hotel Erwin. The only rooftop bar in Venice Beach, where you can enjoy specialty cocktails, a live DJ, and stunning boardwalk views.

I also highly recommend visiting the gorgeous Venice Canal Historic District. This Italian-inspired neighborhood is incredibly picturesque and perfect for a leisurely walk and some great photos.

Exploring the canals is truly one of the most unique and memorable things I’ve done in Los Angeles, and it’s a highlight I always suggest adding to your itinerary.

For a truly memorable sunset, you should head to Santa Monica, which is just about three miles from Venice Beach. Watching the sun dip below the horizon from the Santa Monica Pier or the beach is always a wonderful experience; the views of the Pacific Ocean are stunning!

Santa Monica’s amusement park, right on the pier, adds even more fun to the evening. The area is also packed with food stalls, great restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, so there’s no shortage of ways to treat yourself while you’re there.

Santa Monica is one of my favorite places to unwind and end a day in Los Angeles.

Tours to add to Your Los Angeles Itinerary

If you’re still looking for ideas, here are a few amazing tours I recommend considering for your Los Angeles itinerary:

• Beverley Hills and Hollywood Helicopter Tour: For fantastic views of the Hollywood sign and mansions of Beverley Hills
• Warner Bros. Studios Hollywood Tour: See the iconic sets of your favorite movies or shows. One of these also includes ‘Central Park’ set from friends.

I’ve found these tours to be fun, informative, and a great way to experience the city from a different perspective!

Where to Stay in Los Angeles?

There are so many fantastic accommodation options in Los Angeles, and where you stay really depends on what you want from your holiday.

Personally, I think Hollywood is the best area for tourists because it puts you close to many of the city’s top attractions.

If you’re on a budget, consider staying in the Venice Beach neighborhood. It’s lively and affordable.

For beach lovers, Santa Monica has some amazing hotels that make for a relaxing and convenient stay.

Here are my top picks for hotel accommodations in Los Angeles, based on different budgets:

Budget (Up to $120/night): Hollywood Inn Suites Hotel is a great choice for a comfortable stay at an excellent price. It’s just 11 km from LAX, making it super convenient if you’re flying in.

Mid-Range ($120–$275/night): Loews Hollywood Hotel is one of my favorites in this range. The rooms are stylish, spacious, and modern.Some even have views of the Hollywood Hills. You’ll also find a rooftop pool, sun terrace, gym, restaurant, bar, and childcare services. Plus, it’s right next to the Dolby Theatre and TCL Chinese Theatre, which is perfect for sightseeing.

Luxury ($275+/night): For a true splurge, I recommend the iconic Hotel Bel-Air. This historic hotel feels like a peaceful oasis away from the city’s hustle and bustle. The rooms are elegant and luxurious, and you’ll have access to a gorgeous outdoor pool, a spa, a fitness center, top-notch dining, and beautiful gardens. It’s a dreamy, ultra-luxurious escape.

No matter your budget, you’ll find something special in Los Angeles!

Best Time To Visit Los Angeles

In my experience, Los Angeles is a fantastic destination year-round, but the best time to visit really depends on what you want to do.

From March to November, the weather is generally pleasant, perfect for hitting the beaches, exploring theme parks, hiking the Hollywood Hills, or attending outdoor events.

Just keep in mind that peak tourist season is during the summer, from June to September, so things can get quite crowded. If you prefer quieter vacations, I recommend avoiding LA during these months.

Winter in Los Angeles, from December to February, usually brings sunny days and chillier nights. While the beach is still an option, you might encounter occasional rain showers, so I always pack an umbrella or poncho just in case. On the bright side, winter is a great time for budget travelers; flights and hotel prices are often much cheaper, making it an ideal season to visit if you’re looking to save.

No matter when you go, there’s always something exciting to do in LA!

How To Get Around Los Angeles?

In my experience, the most convenient way to get around Los Angeles is by using the metro system, which covers both rail and bus routes throughout the city. I recommend picking up a TAP (Transit Access Pass) card from any metro station; it makes paying for rides simple and seamless.

If you prefer more flexibility, I also use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft, which are widely available in LA and perfect for getting to places the metro doesn’t reach easily.

What Are The Essentials To Pack For Los Angeles?

Apart from the general things you will probably pack for your trip, below are some essentials that you should not forget to carry to Los Angeles;

Comfortable Walking Shoes : Heels or boots look great for club hopping. But, for comfortable exploration on the streets of Los Angeles, a pair of comfortable sneakers are a must.

Portable Charger or Power Bank : While in Los Angeles, you really cannot afford to allow your phone batteries to drain out. There are so many picturesque places to capture plus you GPS is great for convenient navigation through the city. So, make sure you pack a reliable portable charger.

Sunscreen : Neutrogena water resistant sunscreen lotion is effective and necessary for protection from sun burns and irritations.

Small Backpack : A cute small backpack is very handy for packing essential things before leaving for hike or beach trips in Los Angeles.

Refillable Water Bottle : To keep yourself hydrated while out for walking tours or hikes.

And there you have it! My perfect Los Angeles itinerary! Cosmopolitan, vibrant, entertaining, and sprawling, Los Angeles is a city that never disappoints. With all these personal tips and highlights, I hope you now feel confident about how to spend an amazing 2 days in LA. Enjoy your adventure!

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