Los Angeles is a city that truly has it all sun soaked beaches, world famous attractions, trendy neighborhoods, and an energy that feels electric day and night. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, building the perfect Los Angeles travel itinerary means mixing a little bit of everything: iconic landmarks, local culture, and of course, amazing food. In this guide, you’ll find the top things to do in Los Angeles, from strolling Hollywood Boulevard to catching the sunset at Santa Monica Pier. We’ll also share insider tips on where to stay in Los Angeles, from boutique hotels to luxury resorts, plus recommendations for the best restaurants in Los Angeles so you can eat like a local. Get ready to plan a trip that captures the very best of LA.
Dates: May 26-29
Airport: IAD to LAX
Los Angeles has always been on my travel list. I’ve imagined those Cali palm trees ever since I can remember. I finally took the plunge to visit L.A. Memorial Day weekend.
Flight
The flight was inexpensive for a holiday weekend. The cost of my flight was $330 with Alaska Airlines and I booked it a little over a month in advance.
Where to stay in Los Angeles
I did two nights at The Westin in downtown L.A. and the last night at Crowne Plaza near the airport. The Westin was super nice and not far from the places I visited. The Crowne Plaza was meh. I did the last night near the airport so I could visit Santa Monica and Venice Beach. Both hotels were booked through Hotwire.
Getting Around
Uber prices were reasonable (under $10 for pool). People complained about traffic in L.A. being horrible. I guess I got lucky, it took me about 15-12 minutes to get anywhere.
Restaurants in Los Angeles
But why is my food list always longer than my to-do list? LOL. I’m embracing being a semi-foodie. Here’s a couple places I tried.
In & Out Burger
One of my friends raved about this place. Every time she goes to Cali she swears by it. I went to the Hollywood location. I was underwhelmed. I was not really impressed by the burger or fries. I honestly feel 5 Guys burgers taste waaayyy better.
Roscoe’s Chicken & Waffles
I was very impressed with the food especially the chicken. I would definitely come here again.
SUR Restaurant & Lounge
Reality TV is my weakness. I couldn’t come to L.A. and not checkout SUR. For those who don’t know, Bravo has a reality TV show about the people who works at Lisa VanderPump’s restaurant, SUR. Lisa is on the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. The ambiance, vibe, and food was on point. Of course I had the goat cheese balls that Stassi raves about.
Pink’s Hotdogs
Sometimes I can be a bit of a plain Jane. I ordered a chili cheese dog.
I can’t remember this place, but it was good across from Santa Monica Pier.
Here’s a list of places that I didn’t get a chance to visit:
- A1 Tacos
- Little Damage: black ice cream shop
- The Serving Spoon
- Berri’s
- King Taco
- Kitchen 54 ($15 bottomless mimosas on Saturday/HH 3pm-8pm
- Grand Cafe ($50 buffet and unlimited mimosas)
- All Flavor No Grease Food Truck
- Howlin Rays
- The Griddle
Things to do in Los Angeles
Madame Tussaud’s
A famous wax museum of various celebrities.
Griffith Observatory
This is a free park to visit. You can see the Hollywood sign from here.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Located near N Highland Ave & Hollywood Blvd
Staples Center
I’m a huge Kobe Bryant fan so I couldn’t come to L.A. without seeing where one of the GOATs played basketball.
Beach: Santa Monica Pier & Venice Beach
It was way too cold to get in the water, the I loved the atmosphere at both beaches.
Here’s some other places to see:
- Beverly Center (mall)
- Rodeo Drive
- Getty Museum (free)
- Runyon Canyon: Hollywood
- Museum of Ice Cream
- The Dunes: 709 N Inglewood Ave, Inglewood, CA
- LA Live (Downtown)
- Grammy Museum (Downtown)
Night Life
- Playhouse (Hollywood)
- OHM (Hollywood)
- Blue Moon Hookah (Downtown)
- Onyx Lounge (Downtown)
From Hollywood glamour to laid back beach vibes, Los Angeles offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re exploring world-class attractions, trying new cuisines at the best restaurants in Los Angeles, or relaxing in one of the many stylish hotels in Los Angeles, the city is filled with endless possibilities. Planning the right mix of sightseeing, dining, and downtime ensures your trip feels both exciting and balanced. No matter your travel style, you’ll find countless things to do in Los Angeles that make every visit unforgettable. Pack your bags, hit the West Coast, and get ready to create your own perfect LA story.
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