How can I spend 24 hours in LA? Los Angeles is a big city with a lot to see and do. If you’re only in town for a day, it can be hard to know where to start. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time in LA, is that possible? Wow, of course, you can!
The first thing you need to do is decide which part of the city you want to visit. Do you want to see the sights of Downtown LA, experience the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, stroll through the chic streets of Beverly Hills, or enjoy the sunny beaches of Santa Monica?
Places to Visit in Los Angeles in 24 Hours
There are plenty of ways to explore L.A., and this curated tour is a good one if you only have 24 hours (or less) to spare. The route, highlighted with maps of public transportation options and more, has eight stops that will let you visit top landmarks such as Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and the beach in under a day.
A stroll down the Venice Beach Boardwalk to Santa Monica.
I love getting away for the weekend and hitting one of my favorite spots to spend time in LA. While Venice Beach is also my go-to spot, I have also enjoyed making my way down to Santa Monica. Between walking along the beachfront boardwalk with my pup, grabbing food from any of the many hipster cafes that have opened on Abbot Kinney (one of my favorites being a vegan bakery + cafe — yum! ), hanging out at Dog Haus Westside.
Savor Japanese cuisine on Sawtelle
The key to spending time in Los Angeles is to book every minute of your trip. You can also make the most of your time by visiting multiple neighborhoods throughout Sawtelle. Besides, when you are in LA, eating is something that can be done at any time of the day! There are so many food options around us and for different budgets. Think about what you would like to eat now, on this specific spot, and later. Check out Savor Japantown’s menu which offers.
Take in modern art and archaeology in Mid-Wilshire
If you’re looking to experience some culture, head west to the Mid-Wilshire neighborhood. You won’t be disappointed!. Taking a weekend away from your city to see some of the local attractions can also be done in L.A. Known for its diverse culture, Los Angeles is home to modern art museums and historical monuments that showcase its rich history.
See the Berlin Wall across from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) before crossing the street to take your mandatory selfie in front of artist Chris Burden’s Urban Light sculpture. Then, see what’s on display at LACMA. For a fun and unique experience, check out the Petersen Automotive Museum to see classic, unique, and ludicrously expensive cars. Then, head over to the Craft and Folk Art Museum to see craft and design projects from a diverse selection of artists. You can even take part in a workshop! To conclude your whirlwind tour, take a lap around the historic La Brea Tar Pits – the world’s only active, urban Ice Age excavation site. What’s more, it won’t cost you a thing!
A happy hour under the Hollywood sign
There is always something to do in Los Angeles, and if you are lucky enough to be here for the weekend, you can make the most of it by going to happy hour at a bar in the shadow of the Hollywood sign. Although there are tons of tourist attractions in LA, everyone can agree that Hollywood’s star shines above all others.
Soak up some culture and then head over to Hollywood for happy hour! Walk on the wild side and enjoy everything that this vibrant city has to offer. Head to Hollywood and Vine to check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame, but then head east to avoid being slowed down by tourists. Before enjoying a cocktail or afternoon caffeine break, take your obligatory photo of the Hollywood Sign from Hollywood Boulevard and Bronson Avenue.
Head downtown for dinner
To maximize your time in Los Angeles and make the most of your trip, head downtown for dinner. Sure, you can visit places like Rodeo Drive and Hollywood Boulevard, but L.A. has endless places to go for a bite, making it perfect for anyone looking to get out of their hotel room. If you’re visiting Los Angeles over Thanksgiving, plan on spending the day outdoors. Explore neighborhoods like Santa Monica, Venice, or Beverly Hills. You can even book a helicopter tour.
Downtown Los Angeles is a foodie’s paradise, with some of the best restaurants in the city, as well as being a must-visit neighborhood for a day in LA. For the best Mexican food, be sure to check out Chef Ray Garcia’s Broken Spanish. If you’re interested in French cuisine, Le Petit Paris is the perfect place for you. This luxurious dining establishment is located in the lobby of a former Art Deco hotel and is definitely worth a visit for its stunning decor alone. For something more casual, try the legendary diner The Pantry, where guests can enjoy classic American comfort food 24/7.
You Can Read about: How to Make the Most Out of Your Family Traveler Adventures
Best Family Activities and unique things to do In LA, California
For families in search of the best family activities in Los Angeles, look no further than this post. This post will provide you with all the information about the top family activities that you and your loved ones need to know. If you are traveling to LA, then be sure to check out my post, 24 Hours in Los Angeles: Things to Do in LA.
Aquarium of the Pacific
This aquarium is a great day trip for kids, whether they love the ocean or not. Guests will be treated to a variety of marine life including sharks, giant Pacific octopus, eels, stingrays, sea otters, and more! Come to the Aquarium of the Pacific to learn about the ocean’s creatures and the history of the area through interactive exhibits and stations. With something for everyone, it’s one of the top picks for family activities in LA.
The Aquarium of the Pacific is a world-renowned aquatic destination located in Long Beach, California. Open daily (except Mondays) from 9:30 am to 5 pm Pacific Time, the Aquarium is home to more than 11,000 marine animals representing over 500 species. Visitors can learn about the fascinating creatures that inhabit our planet’s oceans through hands-on exhibits, educational presentations, and up-close animal encounters. For more information, please visit the Aquarium of the Pacific website.
Warner Bros. Studios Tour
How to Spend 24 Hours in Los Angeles and Make the Most of Your Time Warner Bros. Studios Tour is always an amazing experience, especially when it comes to kids. Kids will fall in love with the cartoons created by their parents as a kid. The tour starts at 10 AM, depending on the day of the week, and will end at 6 PM or 7 PM, your choice. Be prepared for an exciting day filled with adventure, screams of laughter, and big smiles.
Yes, you can come to explore the sets of some of the most popular movies ever made. Movies like Harry Potter, Batman Begins, and Indiana Jones were all shot on location here. You can see the sets from your favorite movies. You can also discover how your favorite films are made, and get up close and personal with the props, costumes, and other items you see on the big screen.
Newport Beach Whale Watching Tour
The easiest way to get from one place to another is on a tour. The key with tours is to pick the ones that fit your style, so you won’t have trouble making it entertaining for both yourself and your clients. Los Angeles has endless things to do; it just depends on what types of attractions you enjoy more. There are iconic places like Hollywood, Venice, and Newport Beach. Spend some time in each one because there is always something fun going on.
Many people find whale watching to be an exciting activity, as it allows them to get up close and personal with these majestic creatures of the Pacific Ocean, all from the comfort of their tour boat.
Petersen Automotive Museum
Petersen Automotive Museum is dedicated to the exploration and presentation of the automobile and its impact on American life and culture using Los Angeles as the prime example. The museum is located on Wilshire Boulevard along Museum Row in the Miracle Mile section of Los Angeles. It was founded on June 11, 1994, by Robert E. Petersen and is operated by the Petersen Automotive Museum Foundation. The museum was originally located on Wilshire Boulevard in a building once occupied by Gilmore Bank.
On display at the Petersen are more than 100 icons from all over the world, showcasing 120 years of American automotive design and technology.
Tandem Paragliding
LA is the perfect place for an adventure. If you’re looking for a new challenge, tandem paragliding is sure to get your heart racing. This adventure gives you a bird’s eye view of the ocean below as you soar in tandem with a professional pilot through the sky. It’s a truly exhilarating activity that lets you see the Pacific Ocean in a whole new way. The clear skies make it even better.
Whether you’re an experienced paraglider or have never flown before, paragliding can be a fun and enjoyable sport for everyone. Don’t forget to bring your cameras for a fun day out with the family!
See also: “How to make family traveler possible: The ultimate guide“
Best Places to Enjoy Food In LA
Trying to figure out what to do in Los Angeles, the city of angels? Trying to decide between beaches, mountains, or Hollywood? Do you want to try some of the best food in LA? You can’t go wrong with food! Luckily there are so many delicious options and this time we won’t mention tacos. Make a list before you go and try new things. Aside from Mexican cuisine, L.A. has amazing sushi, Asian food, pizza, grilled cheese sandwiches, and (unexpectedly) donuts.
The Griddle Cafe
This modern diner offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as their signature dish, the “Griddle.” This classic breakfast consists of eggs, bacon, and cheese. This definitely one of the best in LA and features chicken, steak, fish, salads, and much more.
Frida Mexican Cuisine
The Frida is a renowned Mexican restaurant in the city, known for its excellent dishes such as the “Carnitas”, a slow-cooked shredded pork in a rich broth. There are many other delicious options available as well, including authentic Mexican recipes, delicious Tacos, hand-Crafted Tequila Cocktails, and more, sure to please any and all appetites. They strive to embody Frida’s passionate and exotic spirit in their modern Mexican cuisine.
See also: “Why Family Traveler is Important: 5 Reasons to Convince You“
Best Hotels To Stay In LA
Although the high cost of living in Los Angeles may make it difficult for some people to afford hotels, it is still a wonderful place to visit. There are many affordable hotels and activities to enjoy in LA.
Where to stay when you come to LA? The Beverly Hills Hotel is a great option, but there are many other places that are much better valued for money.
There are many amazing hotels to stay at in LA, from 5-star resorts to chic boutique options. But with so many great choices, how do you decide which one is right for you?
- Ayres Hotel Orange is a 3-star hotel.
- Shade Hotel Manhattan Beach is a 4-star hotel.
- The Beverly Hills Hotel – Dorchester Collection is a 5-star hotel.
Top events and things to do at night
There are plenty of things to do at night, whether you’re looking for a fun night out with friends or a romantic evening for two. Here are some of the top events and things to do at night:
- See the City of Angels sparkle at night on a tour
- Watch a Major Sporting Event
- Go Wild at Universal Studios
- Visit a Nighttime Attraction or Museum
- Come aboard the Queen Mary for a hauntingly good time! Experience all the chills and thrills this spooky ship has to offer on your next ghostly adventure
- Take a Dinner Cruise
- See the View at OUE Skyspace
- Go to a Comedy Show
Places to visit in Los Angeles at night
Planning a trip to Los Angeles? Spend a day exploring the Arts District and Farmer’s Market before moving on to Hollywood for celebrity spotting. Or head inland and enjoy the funky downtown vibe in Santa Monica, artistry in Venice, or beaches galore in Marina Del Rey. Whatever you choose, make it fun:
- Visit the Santa Monica Pier
- Visit the Griffith Observatory
- Visit the Hollywood Boulevard
- Visit the Kinney Boulevard
- Visit and Spend an Evening at Universal CityWalk
- Visit Farmers Market and The Grove
Conclusion:
How to spend 24 hours in Los Angeles and make the most of your time? This post will provide you with all the information about the top family activities that you and your loved ones need to know. If you are only in town for a day, it can be hard to know where to start. Here, we give you a guide to help you find the best family activities and unique things to do in the city of Los Angeles. For families in search of the best activities in Los Angeles, look no further than this post.