A Weekend in Los Angeles
Itinerary By a Native
I’m just going to say it, Los Angeles is one of the greatest cities on Earth! All of those who make the move to “the City of Angels” know they've made the right decision. From its beautiful weather to the exciting culture, art, music, theatre, and food, Los Angeles truly has something for everyone.
I am born and raised in LA, so I have a special place in my heart for the City of Angels. From a young age, I fell in love with the charm and all that Los Angeles has to offer. From the many amazing museums, such as the Getty Museum, to the unique restaurants like Flavors From Afar or Hansei, to cute tea houses, the possibilities are endless.
What makes Los Angeles so special is its immense diversity. It has the highest population of Asians of any US city, Latin cultural influences can be felt through traditional festivals and markets, and East LA is a vibrant kaleidoscope of cultures and arts. According to the United States Census, nearly half of the city's population is of a diverse origin, with the majority population being Hispanic or Latin American. No other city in the US can compare to the extensive culture and art that Los Angeles has to offer. From its beautiful beaches and mountains to its culturally diverse environment, there’s no doubt as to why so many fall in love with the "City of Angels".
Top 10 Must-Sees In Los Angeles:
Hollywood Sign: One of the most iconic sights in LA, the Hollywood Sign is a must-see for any first-time visitor to the city.
The Hollywood Sign is one of the most famous and recognizable landmarks in the world. Located in the Hollywood Hills of Los Angeles, California, it was created in 1923. The sign originally read “Hollywoodland” which was meant to advertise a new residential development in the hills. It was later shortened to just “Hollywood” and has gone through several restorations since then. The Sign is a world-famous symbol of glamour, fortune, and the magic of the movies.
Universal Studios Hollywood: Universal Studios Hollywood takes you behind the scenes of some of your favorite movies and TV shows, offering a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.
Universal Studios Los Angeles is an iconic Movie Studio and Theme Park located in Universal City, just north of Hollywood. It has been in operation since 1915 and features a variety of attractions, rides, shows, and more. My favorite part of taking a trip to Universal Studios is the back lot tours! You can tour movie sets from movies like Back to the Future, Jurassic Park, Pirates of the Caribbean, Apollo 13, Transformers, How the Grinch Stole Christmas, Jaws and Jaws 2, King Kong, and Bruce Almighty. If you are a HUGE movie buff like myself, this is the perfect day trip!
Griffith Observatory: Located at the summit of Mount Hollywood, the observatory offers views of the city and stargazing shows for visitors. If you’re into astrology, you do not want to miss this gem in the Hollywood Hills.
I recommend taking the Hollywood hike in the morning which is about 6 miles total, so come prepared with plenty of water, wear appropriate footwear, and avoid hiking alone. It is also important to take snack breaks along the hike and plan for brunch immediately after! After lunch, browse around Downtown Hollywood and pick up charcuterie essentials from Trader Joe’s, or visit one of the many trendy restaurants like Six 01 Cafe or Umami for your favorite dish. Grab something to munch on or sip on (hey, it is up to you honey!) while you watch the sunset over the LA cityscape.
Come back for a sunset picnic on the Griffith Observatory lawn and stay to watch the stars. This iconic structure was founded in 1935 by Griffith J. Griffith, a wealthy philanthropist whose gift to the city of Los Angeles led to the creation of one of the most important landmarks in the city. It not only offers spectacular views of the city but is also a leader in astronomical research. The Observatory closes at 10 pm, so you have plenty of time to walk around the beautiful Art Deco observatory, marveling at the astral displays, studying the artifacts and artwork, and educating yourself on the importance of astronomy to the City of Los Angeles.
The Getty Center or The Getty Villa: (These are two different places, both are outstanding!) This breathtaking art museum is laid out like an Italian villa and houses a wide array of art from around the world.
The Getty Villa is an exceptional educational and cultural destination commemorating the art and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria. Located in Pacific Palisades, California, the museum is owned and operated by the J. Paul Getty Trust and has been open to the public since 1974. Occupying a unique and spectacular landscape, the Getty Villa is made up of 44,000 impressive pieces of art from the civilizations of the ancient Mediterranean. This astonishing collection includes stunning vases, sculptures, and archaeological artifacts such as Greek vases and Roman funerary urns.
At the Getty Villa, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the region through a range of exhibits, seminars, and special events. These offerings include temporary exhibitions, educational talks, and workshops ready to be explored and enjoyed while getting a taste of the mythology and culture of ancient cultures. Guests will also be able to attend musical performances, lectures, and family-oriented activities for a truly unforgettable experience.
The design and layout of the museum also reflect its commitment to providing an immersive experience. Taking inspiration from the architecture of the ancient buildings of the Mediterranean, the museum is designed to transport guests back in time and let them experience the history and culture of the area. With its impressive exhibitions, variety of educational programs, and an array of special events, the Getty Villa is truly a must-see destination for those looking to explore the art and history of ancient civilizations.
The Santa Monica Pier is a landmark of the Pacific Coast Highway, an iconic wooden structure that draws in both tourists and locals to its bustling crowds. With stunning panoramic views of the ocean, visitors can enjoy a stroll under the warm Californian sun and take in the salty ocean breeze. As one of the few remaining Historic Route 66 stops, the pier carries decades of nostalgia with its original carousel, old-fashioned arcades, aquarium, and other amusements.
Originally a shipping wharf in the 1900s, the pier propelled Santa Monica's transformation into a premier seaside resort. Today, it is a cultural cornerstone for the community, offering a myriad of activities for visitors. Whether it is delicious seafood snacks, thrilling rides, or simply taking in the atmosphere, the pier has something for everyone. To make the most of the experience, plan to visit for sunset to witness the beautiful colors of the sky meet the sea, and come during the morning hours to avoid the crowds. With so many unique attractions and activities, the Santa Monica Pier is sure to be a visit to remember.
Malibu, California is a legendary coastal city known for its stunning views and the plethora of beaches, mountains, and trails. It is located 30 miles west of downtown Los Angeles and is bordered by Topanga State Park and the Santa Monica Mountains. Malibu, Laguna, and El Matador are my favorite beaches in SoCal!!!!! It’s the perfect day trip to soak up some vitamin D, and decompress to the sounds of the crystal blue water. (Highly recommend these two for solo travelers specifically my ladies, they are the safest and cleanest in comparison to Venice or Santa Monica.)
The Hollywood Museum is worth visiting for anyone interested in film, television, and movie history. Visitors can see numerous artifacts, memorabilia, props, and costumes from beloved films and tv shows as well as experience exhibits dedicated to specific celebrities or films.
There are also exhibits that explore Hollywood’s legendary recording studios, its music, and its fabled nightclubs. Visitors can see the props that were used in classic films such as Gone With the Wind, Casablanca, and Psycho. Visitors can also check out the David H. Koch Gallery, which showcases costumes worn by Hollywood’s leading ladies, and a Marilyn Monroe exhibit. The museum also hosts a variety of special events and shows throughout the year, including a vintage Hollywood costume show, celebrity guest appearances, and star panel discussions.
Hollywood Boulevard
Take a walk down the Boulevard and take in all the sites and sounds of this iconic street. I’m going to be totally honest, locals don’t spend a lot of time on Hollywood Boulevard. I will say it is worth the photo opp to see the place that so many legends have walked before you, and you will be in close proximity to a plethora of other Hollywood activities!
Step inside one of the world’s most iconic theaters and marvel at the thousands of footprints and handprints left behind by Hollywood royalty.
The outdoor music venue is a great place to watch live concerts throughout the year. It’s an LA classic during the summer! Thanks to my other half, I was treated to a concert here in 2022, and it never disappoints! It is one of the few venues that lets you bring your own food and beverages with you on select nights, even the bubbly kind if you know what I mean :)
Los Angeles is one of the most exciting and beautiful cities you will ever come across, and there’s no doubt why it’s one of the best cities ever. I am lucky enough to call it home, and hope that you have the chance to see it for yourself one day!
Stay Curious, Humble, And Kind!
With love,
