Table of Contents
Introduction
Are you short on time but still want to see the best of Los Angeles? You’re in the right place! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the Los Angeles things to see in one day. From famous landmarks like the Hollywood Sign to beautiful beaches like Venice Beach, we’ve got you covered. You’ll get to explore the city’s highlights in just one day without feeling rushed.
Your One-Day LA Adventure Starts Here
Los Angeles is a big city, but with careful planning, you can see a lot in one day. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or just passing through, these are the top things to see in Los Angeles in one day.
Los Angeles things to see in one day (Full-Day Itinerary)
| Time | Place | Activity |
|---|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Venice Beach | Walk, rent a bike, or grab breakfast |
| 10:00 AM | Santa Monica Pier | Explore the pier and visit the Farmers Market |
| 12:00 PM | Beverly Hills | Walk Rodeo Drive, sightsee, and have lunch |
| 2:00 PM | Hollywood Sign | Take photos from Griffith Park |
| 3:30 PM | Hollywood Blvd | Visit the Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre |
| 5:00 PM | LACMA | Visit Urban Light and explore the museum |
| 7:00 PM | Griffith Observatory | Watch the sunset and enjoy the city views |
Start at Venice Beach
Begin your day at Venice Beach. This place is fun and lively, perfect for an early morning stroll. Venice Beach is famous for its street performers, colorful murals, and skateparks. The boardwalk is lined with unique shops and cafés where you can grab breakfast. You can also rent a bike and ride along the beach on the bike path.
If you enjoy people-watching, this is the place to be! You’ll see locals skating, biking, and even performing stunts. It’s a fun way to start your day in Southern California.
Venice Beach Quick Info:
| Things to Do | Prices |
|---|---|
| Rent a bike | $10–$15 per hour |
| Parking (lots nearby) | $10–$20 |
| Breakfast (Cafés and food trucks) | $10–$15 per person |
Next Stop: Santa Monica Pier
Just north of Venice Beach, you’ll find the Santa Monica Pier. It’s a classic Southern California spot. The pier has carnival games, food stands, and a big Ferris wheel. Hop on the Ferris wheel for a great view of the ocean. The pier is also a nice place to grab a snack or some ice cream.
If you visit on a Wednesday or Saturday morning, don’t miss the Santa Monica Farmers Market nearby. You can pick up fresh fruit or check out local artists selling their crafts.
What to Do at Santa Monica Pier:
| Attraction | Price |
|---|---|
| Ferris Wheel Ride | $10 per person |
| Carousel | $5 per person |
| Santa Monica Farmers Market (open Wed & Sat) | Free to visit |
Explore Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive
Next, make your way to Beverly Hills. This part of LA is famous for its luxury and style. Take a stroll down Rodeo Drive, where you can window shop or step into high-end stores like Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Even if you’re not into shopping, it’s fun to walk around and soak in the glitzy atmosphere.
Afterward, take a short drive through the lovely tree-lined streets of Beverly Hills. The area is known for its mansions and celebrity homes. It’s also a wonderful place to grab lunch. Many restaurants offer outdoor seating so you can relax and enjoy the weather.
Visit the Hollywood Sign and Walk of Fame
Every trip to Los Angeles is complete with seeing the Hollywood Sign. Head over to Griffith Park for one of the best views of the sign. From here, you can also enjoy a panoramic view of the city.
Once you’ve taken your photos, drive down to Hollywood Blvd to check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The sidewalk is covered in stars featuring the names of famous actors, musicians, and filmmakers. Take advantage of the TCL Chinese Theatre, where many movie premieres happen. You might even see some handprints from your favorite celebrities.
Lunchtime in West Hollywood
After all the sightseeing, it’s time for a break. West Hollywood is a great place to grab lunch. The area is known for its trendy cafés and diverse restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for tacos, sushi, or a classic burger, there’s something for everyone.
West Hollywood is also a good place to explore if you have some extra time. The neighborhood has interesting street art and boutiques.
Explore the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)
If you love art, you’ll want to stop by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). Even if you don’t have much time, be sure to check out Urban Light, an outdoor exhibit featuring 202 restored street lamps. It’s one of the most photographed spots in LA.
If you have more time, explore the museum’s indoor collections. The exhibits cover a wide range of art, from ancient sculptures to modern paintings.
LACMA Ticket Prices:
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | $25 |
| Seniors (65+) | $21 |
| Teens (13–17) | $10 |
| Kids (12 and under) | Free |
End Your Day at Griffith Observatory
To wrap up your day, head back to Griffith Park and visit the Griffith Observatory. The observatory is an excellent site to view the sunset. From here, you’ll have a beautiful view of the entire city, including the mountains, downtown Los Angeles, and even the ocean.
If you’re interested in space and science, the observatory also has exhibits and telescopes that are free to use. It’s a peaceful way to end your day after exploring the city.
Things to Remember for Your One-Day LA Trip
- Start Early: Traffic in LA is unpredictable, so start your day early to make the most of it.
- Use Public Transportation: Parking can be tough in LA, so consider using the Metro or rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.
- Stay Hydrated: Southern California can get hot, so be sure to carry water with you.
- Plan for Traffic: LA traffic is famous for being slow, so always give yourself extra time to travel between spots.
Bonus Tips for Your Day in LA
- Bring Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, so make sure you have comfy shoes.
- Check the Weather: Los Angeles usually has great weather, but it’s a good idea to check the forecast so you can dress accordingly.
- Charge Your Phone: You’ll want to take lots of pictures, so make sure your phone is fully charged.
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Conclusion
With this guide, you can experience the best of Los Angeles things to see in one day. From Venice Beach to the Hollywood Sign, you’ll get a taste of LA’s culture, art, and history. Whether you’re sightseeing or simply relaxing at the beach, LA offers something for everyone. So pack your camera, grab your sunglasses, and enjoy your day in Los Angeles!
Have fun, and remember to share your one-day LA experience in the comments below!
