LA: The City of Stars, Surprises, and Sun

Day 1: Classic LA Landmarks and City Views

Start your day with breakfast at Eggslut in Grand Central Market, known for its delicious breakfast sandwiches—locals rave about the signature "Slut" sandwich. Then, head to Griffith Observatory for spectacular views of the city and the iconic Hollywood Sign. The observatory also houses interactive exhibits about space and science. It's free to visit and open to the public, offering a memorable experience for solo travelers, couples, and families.

 

For lunch, stop by In-N-Out Burger, a local favorite, for a classic fast food experience that locals swear by. In the afternoon, visit The Getty Center, where you’ll enjoy stunning art collections, gardens, and panoramic views of LA.

 

For dinner, try Bestia, an industrial-chic Italian spot that’s beloved by locals for its house-made charcuterie and pizzas. End the night with a drink at The Rooftop Bar in the Ace Hotel, offering stunning views of Downtown LA.

 

Fun Fact: Griffith Observatory was featured in the movie La La Land and is a popular spot for stargazing.

 

Day 2: Museums and History

Start with breakfast at The Griddle Cafe, a local favorite known for their decadent pancakes and large portions. After breakfast, head to The Natural History Museum, where you’ll encounter dinosaur skeletons and exhibits showcasing LA’s natural history. Next, visit LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art) to experience one of the largest and most diverse collections of art in the country.

 

For lunch, visit Grand Central Market again to try the famous Tacos Tumbras a Tomas. In the afternoon, take a tour of El Matador Beach in Malibu, a hidden gem with beautiful sea caves and dramatic rock formations.

 

Finish your day with a dinner at Pizzana, offering innovative, award-winning Neapolitan-style pizza. Then, head to The Bar at The Roosevelt for drinks in a historic and stylish setting.

 

Fun Fact: The LACMA is home to the famous “Urban Light” installation, a collection of 202 restored street lamps.

 

Day 3: Beaches and Adventure

For breakfast, head to Cafe Gratitude, a plant-based favorite with great smoothies and bowls. Spend your morning soaking up the sun at Santa Monica Beach, and explore the Santa Monica Pier—a must-see for visitors to the city. For lunch, try The Misfit, a trendy local spot with craft cocktails and great small plates.

 

In the afternoon, head to Venice Beach, where you can rent a bike or rollerblade along the beachfront bike path, and stroll through the eclectic Venice Beach Boardwalk.

 

End the day with a surf lesson in Venice Beach (a great adventure activity for couples or solo travelers) and then grab dinner at Gjusta, a local deli known for its incredible smoked fish and baked goods. Wrap up the day with cocktails at The Whaler, a laid-back bar on the Venice Boardwalk.

 

Fun Fact: Venice Beach is home to the famous Muscle Beach, where bodybuilders like Arnold Schwarzenegger once trained.

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Day 4: Food Tour and Hidden Gems

Start your day with a light breakfast at Sqirl, a hip café known for its delicious rice bowls and jams. Then, embark on a guided food tour of Downtown LA with The Tasty Tour, where you’ll visit a series of food spots favored by locals, from tacos to craft coffee. For lunch, try Bestia (again!) or visit Guisados for authentic, slow-braised tacos that have made them a neighborhood institution. In the afternoon, check out The Broad Museum to see contemporary art from artists like Jeff Koons and Yayoi Kusama.

 

End the day with a visit to Angels Flight Railway, a historic funicular offering stunning views of Downtown LA. For dinner, enjoy a unique culinary experience at Providence, an upscale seafood restaurant. Then, unwind with cocktails at Clifton's Republic, a multi-story bar in a quirky retro building.

 

Fun Fact: The Broad Museum's “Infinity Mirror Room” by Yayoi Kusama is one of LA’s most Instagrammed spots.