The dreamy city of Los Angeles is known for its sprawling layout, movie star citizens, and landscape of palm trees that sway with the ocean breeze. If you’re lucky enough to have three full days to spend in Los Angeles, you may be wondering the best way to pack this legendary travel destination into such a quick trip. Don’t worry–we’ve got you covered!
As a Southern California native who has spent more than a decade living in the city, this 3-day Los Angeles itinerary is expert-approved and gives you a full rundown of how to spend your vacation.
Follow our curated schedule (with timestamps!) to experience all the most important cultural landmarks, classic destinations, and restaurant recommendations. Take our local expert advice and get ready to be swept away during a perfect 3-day trip in the City of Angels!
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Know Before You Go
Transportation
It might be tempting to get by without a car, but you’ll probably want one to get around. Rideshare services add up and can get expensive really quickly. Round trip rides from neighborhood to neighborhood can sometimes cost as much as a plane flight… I wish I were joking.
The Metro train system is available for public transportation, but it doesn’t run through most of the city and can be dangerous in certain areas. Renting a car (and using rideshare when you’re drinking) is the most convenient solution for transportation in Los Angeles.
Temperature
Los Angeles is generally pretty sunny throughout the year, but we do get a bit of rainfall during winter months. We also have “May Gray” and “June Gloom” which occur when skies are overcast in early summertime.
You’ll also find that it’s cool and breezy by the beach, but hot and sunny in The Valley (where Universal Studios is located). Dress in layers for those destinations so you can easily adjust!
Traffic
You’ve probably heard complaints about how bad Los Angeles traffic is. While it does get unruly during rush hours, there are certain times of day where it’s much easier to get around.
Roads are generally the most clear between 11am-1pm and after 8pm. There can still be unpredictability though, as an accident or construction can cause slowdowns. It’s always best to schedule in a buffer of extra time just in case.
Getting Around
It can be easy to underestimate how long it will take to get to your destination. It’s important to remember that it takes time for walking to and from the car, driving, traffic, finding parking, and paying for parking.
Unfortunately we can’t just teleport, or else this itinerary would be much easier! We’re including realistic timestamps so that you’ll have some guidelines for getting around to each location–and even have time for a cat nap at your hotel!
Where to Stay
To make the most of your time, I would recommend you stay in West Hollywood. It’s centrally located to all of the best destinations and makes it easy to pop around the city or back to your hotel when needed. These are some great mid-priced options:
🎸 Hotel Ziggy – Vintage, rock-and-roll themed boutique hotel on Sunset Strip with an amazing pool.
💎 Mondrian Los Angeles – Modern hotel known for its luxurious style and popular nightlife/day party venue Skybar (pictured above).
✨ Kimpton La Peer – Central location near lots of popular restaurants, also close to LGBTQ+ nightlife.
😎 Palihotel Melrose – Boutique hotel right in the middle of Melrose Avenue’s most trendy area for shopping.
Day 1: Hollywood
9:00am – Hollywood Boulevard / TMZ Tour
Welcome to Hollywood! Your LA adventure will kick off at one of the most recognized landmarks in the world.
Stars along the Walk of Fame run up and down the Boulevard and extend into side streets as well. If there’s a specific name you’d like a picture with, look it up beforehand because it may be nearly impossible to find by chance.
In front of the TCL Chinese Theatre is where you’ll find the iconic celebrity handprints preserved in cement. Shops and street sellers up and down the Boulevard sell all kinds of LA-themed trinkets and souvenirs.
There are also lots of people dressed as characters for you to take a photo with. Just remember each photo should come with a tip–they don’t do this for free!
If you’d like to enhance your Hollywood experience, we highly recommend buying tickets for the TMZ Celebrity Tour. The popular celebrity gossip website and TV show offers a 2.5-hour bus tour that drives you all around some of LA’s most iconic celebrity hot spots.
Since the tour takes you through Hollywood, West Hollywood, and Beverly Hills, it’s a great way to get a lay of the land before venturing out to those areas on your own.
The guides are all on-the-clock as paparazzi during the tour, so they’re actively spotting celebs and filming footage that gets used on the show. It’s truly a one-of-a-kind experience!
1:00pm – Lunch
🍔 In-N-Out – It’s an essential part of every LA trip–get your burger and animal-style fries on day one at the Sunset Boulevard location, just a few blocks South of Hollywood Boulevard.
🥐 Superba – Contemporary, rustic café with a neighborhood feel. They’re known for their fresh breads, pastries, and beautiful outdoor garden seating.
🥪 Fat Sal’s – Deli shop co-owned by Jerry Ferrara who played “Turtle” on the TV show Entourage. It’s a great spot for sub sandwiches and milkshakes.
🍽 Mel’s Drive-In – A diner-style eatery right off Hollywood Boulevard. The ’50s-inspired space is great for enjoying burgers and fries surrounded by photos of Old Hollywood royalty.
3:00pm – Griffith Observatory
Take your Los Angeles vacation to new heights at the Griffith Observatory in Griffith Park. Drive up the winding road to this planetarium that overlooks the city as far as the eye can see.
It’s been a cultural landmark since 1935, and fans of Old Hollywood might recognize it from the classic film Rebel Without a Cause.
You’ll learn all about astronomy through a number of cool exhibits, including two onsite theaters that show short films all about space.
Hot tip: If you order your lunch to-go, you can have a picnic on the observatory lawn!
Hotel Break
7:00pm – Dinner and a Show
End the first day of your 3-day itinerary by visiting one of the neighborhood’s legendary restaurants and/or attending a live show!
Hollywood is known for its theatrics, so take advantage of the opportunity to see some world-class entertainment.
Dinner
🍕 Miceli’s – This Italian restaurant can be considered a hidden gem, but was a regular visit for the Rat Pack and Marilyn Monroe after opening in 1949. It’s loved by locals for their singing waitstaff and piano performances that entertain while you get a taste of LA history.
🍝 Musso & Frank’s – Since 1919, Musso & Frank’s has been the place to go for entertainment industry professionals. Famous actors, directors, and writers have all eaten at this lauded, family-owned spot.
🏯 Yamashiro – This stunning Japanese restaurant built in 1911 started as a mansion, but now serves up delicious cuisine from its hilltop location. You’ll get unparalleled views and a taste of Hollywood extravagance.
🌮 El Compadre – Los Angeles is known for its Mexican food, and El Compadre is a great place to get your fix. The family-owned local favorite has been open since 1975, feeding the neighborhood with Mexican eats (and delicious margaritas).
🍣 TAO – If you’re looking for something more contemporary, indulge in the Asian-fusion menu at TAO. The grand, multi-level dining room is sure to impress with lavish booth seating and ornate décor.
Live Entertainment
🎼 The Hollywood Bowl – This unparalleled concert venue is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Buy a ticket to see live music performed in an expansive outdoor venue with amazing acoustics. All shows are bring-your-own-food and some are bring-your-own-wine as well!
🎭 The Pantages Theater – Check the schedule at The Pantages to see which Broadway play is in town during your LA vacation. Past shows have included favorites like The Lion King, Hamilton, and Wicked.
🔮 Black Magic Rose – If you’d like to add a touch of magic to your evening, book dinner and a show at Black Magic Rose. This intimate lounge and theater sits in the heart of Hollywood’s nightlife scene, offering a unique magic show and dining experience you’ll never forget!
🎃 Beetle House – You won’t have to say Beetlejuice three times to visit this Halloween-inspired experience! Get tickets for the immersive, spooky dinner and a show for an unforgettable night.
9:00pm or Later – Nightlife
If you’re dead tired at this point, I don’t blame you. But if you made the most of the break (naptime anyone?), you may still have some energy left to enjoy the night.
Here are a few recommendations for bars that are worth visiting for a night cap. (We’ve also got a full list of 10 Hidden Gem Bars on Hollywood Boulevard!)
👽 Scum & Villainy – Any Star Wars fans in the house? Scum & Villainy is modeled after the movie’s famous Mos Eisley Cantina. Sip on their other-worldly concoctions while enjoying the theatrical, sci-fi space.
🌆 MAMA Shelter – A neighborhood favorite rooftop bar, MAMA Shelter is a great place to mix and mingle with the locals. Their lounge-worthy seating is perfect for people watching and DJs come in on weekends to keep the vibes high.
🎩 No Vacancy – This building used to be a schoolhouse where actors like Charlie Chaplin sent their children. Today, it’s a bustling speakeasy bar with an indoor-outdoor dance floor and weekend burlesque performances.
🍻 Good Times at Davey Wayne’s – Another speakeasy nearby, Davey Wayne’s is a hot spot with a 1970s design. The backyard patio, trailer bar, and soundtrack of vintage tunes will all keep you dancing and entertained into the early morning.
Day 2: Beverly Hills, West Hollywood & Downtown LA
9:00am – Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive
This glitzy city is known all over the world as being home to wealth, luxury, and extravagance. If it’s a must-see on your list, take some time to drive through the palm-lined streets and get a taste of where the rich and famous come to play.
If you’ve got some money to spend, you can shop along Rodeo Drive at their selection of designer stores. There are also a number of cafés and restaurants for breakfast.
If you’re just window shopping, you may not need to spend much time here as there aren’t many attractions. Take a photo in front of the Beverly Hills sign and be on your way!
11:00am – West Hollywood
Shopping on Melrose Avenue
Melrose Avenue is one of the most popular streets in Los Angeles thanks to the numerous places to eat, drink, and shop. (We’ve got a whole guide to Melrose Avenue with more info!)
It’s known for its unique boutiques and secondhand stores where LA locals go to upgrade their wardrobes. Places like American Vintage and Wasteland are a vintage lover’s paradise.
Hot tip: If you visit on Sunday, the Melrose Trading Post is open from 10am-5pm in the parking lot at Fairfax High School. This flea market is considered one of the best in the city, and is popular for fashionable locals hunting for their next great find.
Paramount Studios Tour
If you’re not big on shopping, consider skipping Rodeo and Melrose on Day 2, and instead book a studio tour.
West Hollywood is home to Paramount Studios–one of the oldest movie studios in the industry. Walk through the backlot where countless TV shows and movies were filmed, including The Godfather, Breakfast at Tiffany’s, and Titanic.
They have multiple tour options ranging in price and duration, but all of them will give you a quintessential Los Angeles experience that you can’t get anywhere else!
The Original Farmer’s Market
For lunch in the area, head to The Original Farmer’s Market. The outdoor bazaar is home to countless restaurants perfect for a casual bite.
You’ll also find unique stalls like Light My Fire, which sells any hot sauce you can think of, or Kaylin & Kaylin Pickles–a pickle tasting bar!
And in case you’re wondering, The Grove shopping center next door is a bit anticlimactic. It’s a really nice mall that’s frequented by celebrities, but at the end of the day, it’s just a mall. There are better things to see!
2:00pm – Museum Visit
West Hollywood is home to a ton of museums, so you’ll definitely need to get a dose of art and culture while you’re in the area. We’d suggest taking a look at what each museum has to offer and picking your fave to browse with no time constraints.
They’re all really close by, however, so you may be able to cross a few off your list if you’ve got the energy and determination. (You can always re-arrange other activities in the day to prioritize multiple museum visits if you’d like!)
💡 The LACMA – You’ve probably seen the light post installation out front as a classic LA visual. The LACMA is filled with a variety of rotating exhibitions featuring eye-catching paintings, sculptures, and artifacts.
🦴 La Brea Tar Pits – As the only actively excavated, Ice Age fossil site in an urban area, this museum is truly one-of-a-kind. Visit to learn all about the historical site known for its prehistoric animal discoveries sourced from natural black tar.
🎬 Academy Museum of Motion Pictures – Movie fans will love a visit to the Academy Museum. It’s filled with rare movie paraphernalia like costumes, posters, and Oscar awards, along with tons of info about film history.
🚘 Petersen Automotive Museum – This destination is all about cars, with multiple levels showcasing automobiles from every era. Feast your eyes on pristinely kept vintage cars and even famous vehicles from movies like Batman and Back to the Future.
Hotel Break
7:00pm – Dinner
🍜 Formosa Café – A historical go-to that’s been operating since 1939, Formosa Café is the place to go for quality Chinese food. A favorite of celebrities like Frank Sinatra, Elvis Presley, and James Dean, you’ll get a true taste of Old Hollywood hospitality.
🍴 Dan Tana’s – This legendary restaurant is a local favorite that serves up classic Italian dishes and a welcoming vibe. For more than 60 years, they’ve been feeding LA, with some menu items named after the high profile regulars that have ordered them.
🥧 Jones Hollywood – This hangout has been a neighborhood favorite for dishing on Italian and American fare. Make your reservation ahead of time to make sure you get a seat at this hot spot. (And don’t forget to try the apple pie!)
🤠 Saddle Ranch Chop House – Saddle up for this fun destination on Sunset Strip. The western-style saloon includes a mechanical bull and outdoor seating ideal for people watching on the Boulevard.
9:00pm or Later – Nightlife
If you want to maximize your footprint, this would be a good time to make your way out of West Hollywood and explore what Downtown LA has to offer.
I would consider Downtown LA to be optional on a trip this short, but visiting a nightlife venue can be a great way to experience a slice of the neighborhood.
If you’d rather stay in the area, you’ll have no shortage of places to visit. West Hollywood nightlife is some of the best in the city!
West Hollywood
🌃 E.P. & L.P. – One of the best rooftop bars in the city, E.P. & L.P. is a local favorite. Experience the West Hollywood nightlife scene by toasting glasses with a panoramic view of the city.
🎶 The Roxy – Get tickets for a live show to see artists from all over the world in an intimate venue. This prime concert space on the Sunset Strip always has a lineup of quality acts (and a cool hidden bar above the building).
🥃 Whisky A Go-Go – This piece of Los Angeles history was the hottest spot for rock-and-roll in the ‘80s. It’s still the place to go for live music performances in an edgy space fit for head-banging.
😂 Comedy Clubs – There are a variety of comedy clubs in WeHo, including The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory, and The Hollywood Improv. Check each of their schedules to see if there’s a comedian in town who’s got the chops to tickle your funny bone.
Downtown LA
🍾 Level 8 – At the Moxy Downtown Los Angeles you’ll find Level 8–a floor of the building dedicated to eight different food and beverage outlets. You can easily bounce around from dinner to drinks to dancing, all without leaving the property.
🐻 Clifton’s Republic – Since it first opened as a cafeteria in 1938, Clifton’s has been a staple in the LA hospitality scene. It now operates as a multi-level nightlife paradise with a mystical, forest design that’s known to have inspired Walt Disney in his creation of Disneyland.
🍺 Arts District Brewery Hop – If a more laid back night is your style, head to the Downtown LA Arts District to walk between breweries. Locations like Boomtown Brewery, Angel City Brewery, and Arts District Brewing Co. are all worthy visits to taste quality craft beer made in LA.
Day 3: The Westside (Venice Beach, Santa Monica, & Malibu)
Hope you got some sleep after a wild night!
For the last day of this itinerary for 3 days in LA, you’ll be tackling the oceanfront region of The Westside (not to be confused with West Hollywood or West LA, which are different neighborhoods).
Keep in mind there may be traffic on your way to this area. Believe it or not, you won’t be the only one on the road heading to enjoy perfect weather with a view of the Pacific.
There won’t be time for a hotel break today, so grab a coffee and get ready for some beachside exploring!
10:00am – Venice Canals
You’ll start by making way to the Venice Canals in the city of Venice. This area is filled with eye-catching homes that sit along a man-made waterway that was inspired by the canals of Venice, Italy.
Find a good place to park and take a stroll over the bridges, or stay in your car and drive through the area for a quick peek.
The beautiful architecture is worth seeing, but also, no need to spend much time here. There’s lots more to come!
11:00am – Venice Beach Boardwalk
The Venice Beach Boardwalk is world-renowned for its eclectic energy brought on by some of the neighborhood’s most creative citizens.
Walk along the pathway filled with street performers, artists selling their creations, and lots of tasty treats. (Would highly recommend the fresh fruit carts!)
You can stop into the variety of boutiques for shopping, and don’t forget to catch a glimpse of the bodybuilders in action at the famed Muscle Beach.
Hot tip: It takes a while to find street parking on busy days, so opting for a paid lot will save you lots of time.
1:00pm – Lunch
After a day of walking up an appetite, you’ll want to grab a bite at some of the area’s best restaurants. You can stay in Venice for lunch, or head to Santa Monica to get an early start up the coast.
Check out our full list of the best places for brunch in Venice Beach if you’d like some more options!
Venice
🍹 Belles Beach House – Located right off the boardwalk, Belles is a hot spot for Hawaiian-inspired cuisine and delicious, tropical cocktails. Their island-themed design will give you a solid taste of the Pacific in a trendy environment.
🌳 Fig Tree – This super cute café sits right along the boardwalk, yet gives off a tucked away, welcoming vibe. The outdoor seating lets you easily take in the SoCal breeze while dishing on a huge menu of coastal fare.
Santa Monica
🍸 The Georgian – If you want to experience a taste of Santa Monica history, book a reservation to eat at Sirena at The Georgian hotel. The stunning, art-deco property has been around since 1933, and offers an unmatched view of the beach (along with a delectable menu of coastal, Italian dishes).
🦞 The Albright – This restaurant is a bit more touristy, but for good reason. You’ll find a variety of fresh seafood plates right in the hustle and bustle of the Santa Monica Pier.
3:00pm – Santa Monica Pier
After a morning in Venice, you’ll make your way to Santa Monica to visit one of the most well-known landmarks in Los Angeles.
The Santa Monica Pier has lots to do, with shops, street performers, and an entire amusement park! Alright, so it’s no Disneyland, but they do have a Ferris wheel, roller coaster, and plenty of carnival games to keep you entertained.
You can also walk down the pier stairs to the beach if you want to take some time to dig your feet in the sand.
Do be aware that since it’s the busiest area of the ocean, the water isn’t very clean. I wouldn’t recommend swimming near the pier, but it’s a vibrant place for lounging in the sand.
5:00pm Optional Bonus – Cocktails and a Sunset
If you want to make the most of the beachside golden hour, there are a few places you can grab drinks and enjoy the view. We’ve also got a full list for the best rooftop bars in Santa Monica if you’d like some more options!
🌴 The Coco Club – This incognito rooftop bar is hidden away at the penthouse level of Sonder the Beacon hotel. Take the vintage elevator all the way up to experience the best spot in the city for watching the sunset from a bird’s eye view.
🏄🏾♂️ The Bungalow – The house party feel at this Baja California-inspired venue has made it the most popular bar in Santa Monica. Catch the sunset on the patio while enjoying the lively vibes alongside local Westsiders.
🥂 The Penthouse – Take things up a notch at this dreamy rooftop restaurant atop The Huntley Hotel. The contemporary design is light and airy, making you feel like you’re toasting glasses among the clouds.
6:00pm or Later – Dinner in Malibu
Your adventure up the coast will end in the iconic city of Malibu. Take the eye-catching drive up Pacific Coast Highway to this tucked away habitat known for surf, sand, and beautiful luxury homes.
Any of these picks for dinner will be sure to tie the perfect bow on your 3 days in Los Angeles!
🌚 Moonshadows – This local staple lives up to its mystical name by offering incredible views perched over the ocean. They’ve got indoor-outdoor seating, fresh seafood, great cocktails, and of course, a panoramic landscape that can’t be beat.
🦐 Nobu – Known to be a celebrity hotspot, Nobu Malibu is the place to go if you want to end your Los Angeles trip with a bang. Their globally revered, Japanese menu doesn’t disappoint, and neither do the stunning sights of the ocean below.
🏝 Duke’s – This seafood spot is a great option if you’re looking for something approachable and delicious. Tropical drinks and a Hawaiian theme give you a dose of island flavor with breathtaking views.
Alternative LA Destinations
If there’s anything you’ll learn about Los Angeles, it’s that there’s always more to see! Here are a few more recommendations for worthy activities.
Feel free to mix and match anything we mentioned to curate your best possible day in LA.
Full Day Options
For these options, you’ll want to dedicate a full day so that you can get the most out of your ticket. Ride wait times can be long, so you don’t want to have any limitations on your experience.
🎞 Universal Studios Hollywood (The Valley) – Buy a ticket to visit Universal Studios Hollywood and spend the day getting your thrills from some of the coolest rides and attractions in SoCal. Harry Potter World, Super Nintendo World, and the tram backlot ride are just a few notable experiences that make the visit worthwhile.
🎢 Disneyland (Orange County) – It’s about an hour drive away from LA, so you’ll want to take that into account and spend the whole day there. Expect lots of walking, eating, exciting rides, and plenty of entertainment at this magical mouse house!
Half Day Options
You won’t need a full day for these spots. These 3-5 hour activities can be subbed into your schedule to create a day that’s perfect for your interests.
🏀 Sports Game (Various) – There are lots of places to catch a game throughout the LA area. Get tickets to see the Dodgers, Lakers, Clippers, Rams, Chargers or Kings and witness talented athletes showcasing their skills.
🖼 The Getty Museum (The Westside) – The Getty is humongous, so you’ll want to dedicate some time to exploring all the exhibits. Take in the building’s gorgeous architecture and don’t forget to take a walk through the property’s lush garden.
🥾 Hollywood Sign Hike (Hollywood) – If you want to get up-close-and-personal with the Hollywood sign, you can work a hike into your day. There are lots of ways to get there, but this TikToker explains one of the best routes where you’ll end up with the perfect backdrop.
🏖 Beach Day (The Westside) – If you’re a beach baby at heart, you may want to spend some additional time lounging in the sand. Schedule a half day at the beach and soak up the sun with a picnic and a tan. Santa Monica Beach (away from the pier), Venice Beach, and Will Rogers State Beach are all good choices.
📽 Studio Tour (The Valley) – If you couldn’t get enough after exploring Paramount, you can also check out the tours at Warner Brothers or Universal Studios. Each studio has their own behind-the-scenes sights that you won’t be able to experience anywhere else in the world!
An Unforgettable 3-Day Los Angeles Getaway
So there you have it–the perfect 3-day itinerary for making the most of your Los Angeles vacation. From Hollywood to Santa Monica, this schedule will help you check off all the boxes for essential Los Angeles destinations.
Follow our recommendations to eat, drink, (take a nap) and be merry for the perfect LA getaway. Have a blast!
You should also check out:
- 25 Once in a Lifetime Things to Do in Los Angeles 🤩
- LALA Guide’s curated picks for unique experiences ✨
- 12 Trendy Boutique Hotels in Santa Monica 🌊
- The 21 Hottest Rooftop Bars in Los Angeles 🌇
- The 20 Best Los Angeles Lounges 🎺
- The 13 Best Bars in Venice Beach 🍺
Learn more about Los Angeles by checking out our Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest.
Los Angeles Travel Resources:
✈ How do I find affordable flights in LA?
Skyscanner – Their site is super easy to use and gets you a ton of deals on cheap flights.
🛋 Where should I book my hotel?
Booking.com – You can compare info and reviews for hotels all around Los Angeles to see which one works best for your adventure.
🚗 Where should I book a rental car?
Discover Cars – Having a car is a huge convenience for your LA travel experience. You can browse the best offers from over 500 car rental companies all in one place.
🚘 What if I only want a car for a few hours?
Zipcar – Zipcar is great for travelers who aren’t looking to rent a car for the entire duration of your trip. You can reserve a rental car for a few hours, then park it back in its spot when you’re done.
🎬 Where can I find cool tours and experiences?
Viator – They’ve got lots of activities like hiking to the Hollywood sign, helicopter tours, and more!
Tiquets – They’ll help you skip the line at amusement parks, tour studio lots, and get tickets to the city’s best museums.
Find more Los Angeles travel resources to help plan the trip of a lifetime!
