This blog post was updated on May 15, 2020.
Glitz, glamor, and excitement all make the City of Angels a hot spot for tourists from all over the world. After all, where can you plan an itinerary of everything from the magnificent California coastline, dazzling international shopping districts, and the film industry all within a mere 48 hours?
If you’re in Los Angeles for one weekend, we have just the itinerary for you to make it a total blockbuster!
DAY 1 in Los Angeles
Start your day off at the iconic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, site of the first Oscar ceremony in 1929. While looking around this historic hotel where movie stars like Marilyn Monroe spent their days, enjoy breakfast at the 25 Degrees Restaurant.
Image via Flickr CC – Eric Skiff
You can then walk off your meal with a trip directly across Hollywood Boulevard to fit your feet into the footprints of the famous at the forecourt of Graumann’s Chinese Theater.
A short walk to the intersection of Hollywood and Highland, brings you to the Hollywood Museum. Once the headquarters of famed makeup artist Max Factor, it now holds three floors of classic cinema exhibits.
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Next, head to an iconic LA landmark – the Griffith Observatory. Once you’ve ascended to the top of the hill where the observatory is located, you’ll have one of the best views of the city. Entry is free and even if you haven’t spotted any celebs on the streets, you might be able to see plenty of stars for a reasonable price at the Planetarium shows!
Drive up to the nearest In-N-Out burger joint for lunch. This fast food joint is an iconic LA establishment and most Angelenos will give it two thumbs up. Make sure you order your burger “Animal Style” (more pickles, extra spread, grilled onions and mustard fried onto each meat patty) for the ultimate experience.
After that satisfying lunch, see how movies and television shows are created with a trip to Universal Studios Hollywood. Just drive or take the LA Metro to the San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles and Universal City, California. You’ll be able to experience a guided tour of an actual working studio. Featured rides dedicated to The Simpsons, King Kong and Jurassic Park are excellent, and so is the amazing Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
As your day turns into night, a fine British dinner awaits you at Three Broomsticks tavern in the center of this old English village. Designed as an authentic rustic pub, everyone can refresh themselves with a mug of (non-alcoholic) Butter-beer and have their fill of menu options usually found on “the other side of the pond.” From Shepherd’s Pie to Fish and Chips, traditional fare is served with pride.
Cap off the night with a drink at Five Star Bar, a dive bar with a punk rock vibe. You might even catch some live music while you’re there.
Get some rest because there’s a lot more to do on Day 2 in LA!
DAY 2 in Los Angeles
There’s no better way to start your day than with a stop at Bob’s Coffee and Doughnuts, located within the Original Farmer’s Market in the utterly diverse Fairfax district of Los Angeles. Virtually unchanged since it’s opening in 1934, the marketplace boasts over 100 different restaurants, grocers and shops.
Image via Flickr CC – Rachel Titiriga
After you’ve had your fill, make your way to The Getty Center. This art museum is well known for its beautiful garden and the great scenic views it offers of the city. Take the free self-guided audio tour and you’ll be amazed at the exciting and educational exhibits on show.
As lunchtime beckons, nothing says “Americana” more than a full plate at Du-Par’s Restaurant. Like stepping back in time, waitresses will temp you with specials of the day and home-baked pie.
Travel west to the beautiful beaches of Santa Monica. A walk along the Santa Monica Pier, takes visitors literally over the Pacific.
Before the sun sets, make sure to head to the famed Venice Beach stretch, where street performers and bodybuilders can all be seen in action.
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As evening draws near, make sure to have a few glasses of wine at the cozy Mignon bar. You can also pair your drink of choice with some complementary cheeses – the perfect way to unwind after a long day in frenetic LA.
As the dinner hour approaches, make a reservation at 1 Pico at Shutters on the Beach, a unique boutique hotel right on the sand. Between sips of your cocktail and a gourmet meal, allow the golden sunset to wrap up your seaside itinerary.
And there you have it – 48 hours in Los Angeles!
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