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Your guide to summer in Los Angeles

Head outdoors, eat an ice cream cone, crash a pool party and discover more things to do in the summer

Los Angeles may have great weather throughout the year, but summer is arguably the best season in Los Angeles. Sure, we do Halloween parties and Christmas lights pretty good, but we do summer even better with longer days, cooler nights and an endless list of things to do in the city. So get excited for the season with our comprehensive round-up of fun events and things to do in the summer in Los Angeles, including the best beaches, sunniest spots for  day drinking , seasonal things to do and more.

Summer in L.A.

75 things to do in the summer

We’ve got you covered with a list—75 to be exact—of ways to make the most of an L.A. summer.

Summer music festivals in and near L.A.

Not all summer music festivals require a road trip to the desert.

Relax on the beach

From Venice and Santa Monica to Manhattan Beach and Playa Vista, here are the top spots to sunbathe, surf and play.

The best free things to do in L.A. this summer

“Free” and “summer” go together like coffee and donuts, or ice cream and another scoop of ice cream.

All of L.A.’s outdoor movies in one calendar

Your guide to the best spots to watch outdoor screenings of classics and new releases under the stars, for all ages.

Summer concerts in L.A.

Get out your calendars: Your guide to the best summer concerts of 2018 has arrived.

Swimming holes near Los Angeles

Reward yourself with a dip in one of these swimming holes this summer.

The best summer activities for kids in Los Angeles

Fill up your kiddos' summer with these great warm-weather activities faster than you can say "I'm bored!"

The best swimming pools for kids in L.A.

When you’re looking for some summer acitivities for kids, consider these swimming pools. 

The best outdoor adventures in Los Angeles

For those times when you’re craving an adrenaline rush, here are the top outdoor adventures Los Angeles has to offer.

Eat and drink outside

The best rooftop bars in L.A.

Check out L.A.’s best bars with a view, from Venice’s beachside sunsets to rooftop bars with city views over the Strip.

The best rooftop restaurants in L.A.

These mostly open-air rooftop eateries offer excellent food and gorgeous views.

The best outdoor dining in L.A.

The best restaurant patios and outdoor dining spots.

The best picnic ideas in Los Angeles

From where to buy picnic food to the best spots to roll out the blanket, we’ve got you covered.

The best ice cream shops in Los Angeles

When temperatures climb and the Santa Ana winds roll in, treat yourself to the city’s tastiest frozen treats.

The best burgers in L.A.

We set out to track down the best burgers in L.A.

Summer trips

The 15 best day trips from Los Angeles

L.A. is great, but sometimes you need a change of scenery.

The best road trips from L.A.

Including where to visit along the way.

The best car-free day trips from Los Angeles

Take the car out of that equation, and the stress of traffic disappears, too.

The 6 cheapest ways to get around L.A.

If the price of gas has finally worn you down, it might be time to break up with your car.

Things to do outdoors

The 26 best parks in Los Angeles

Roll out a blanket or take a stroll through 25 of the best (and free) parks in Los Angeles.

Best hikes with city views

In a city where open space is sparse and the sprawl can feel endless, climb up to escape from it all.

Best botanical gardens and hidden oases

We’ve rounded up some of our favorites, from botanical gardens in the San Gabriel Valley to hidden oases in the Hollywood Hills.

8 art installations worth a day trip from L.A.

Take a cultural day trip up and down the freeway and you’ll find a side of the art world truly unlike anything closer to home.

The 11 best public pools

Dive into these public pools when you need a break from the summer beach crowds.

5 great places to have a bonfire

There isn’t a much more quintessential California experience than having a bonfire on the beach while watching the sunset.

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Free things to do in L.A.

Use this guide to find free things to do in L.A. when you need a budget-friendly day out.

The 50 best summer songs ever made

Turn it up and let’s make this the best summer ever.

The 15 most epic surf movies

There’s no denying the pull of the surf.

L.A. attractions for tourists and natives alike

Discover ways to fall in love with the city all over again in our extensive list of Los Angeles attractions.

The 51 best things to do in Los Angeles

Looking for things to do in Los Angeles? We've got you covered with tons of options.

Month-by-month summer events

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Home » North America » Los Angeles

37 BEST Places to Visit in Los Angeles (2024)

What can you say about Los Angeles? It’s the city of angels, known just as much for its tourist vibe as it is for its entertainment and its close connections with the television and media industry. For anyone who’s interested in relaxing in the sun while they watch for celebrities or taking photos at famous movie sites, this is the place to come.

But Los Angeles doesn’t usually appeal to every type of traveler. If you’re not interested in seeing celebrities’ gates or immersing yourself in a culture that seems devoted to appearances and little more, this destination can seem like one to avoid. However, despite the advertisements, there is more to this city than meets the eye. And it’s definitely a place worth visiting if you’re interested in some fun nights out, more entertainment options then you could ever see, and some amazing food.

To help you find the places in Los Angeles that appeal to you, we’ve created this easy guide to this flashy city.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Los Angeles:

These are the best places to visit in los angeles, faq on the best places to visit in los angeles, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in los angeles.

Hollywood, California is a top destination for tourists and our recommendation for where to stay in Los Angeles for the first time.

• Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame
• Tickle your taste buds with a famous In-N-Out burger
• Visit the Museum of Broken Relationships, a quirky and interesting museum

And if you need more inspiration on where to stay in Los Angeles, consider checking out one of the best vacation rentals in the city.

Los Angeles is home not only to many famous tourist attractions (and the hopes and dreams of aspiring young performers hoping to catch their big break), but also an immense metropolis of distinct neighbourhoods that appear to be mini-cities within themselves. Get the low down on where to stay in Los Angeles before delving into the magic below.

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#1 – Venice Beach – One of the more unique places to visit in Los Angeles!

• A place to see a side of Los Angeles that has nothing to do with the movies.
• Soak up the rays and relax.
• Lots of great food options in the area.

Why it’s so awesome : If you get sick of the polished perfection of Hollywood then Venice Beach is another gem of visiting Los Angeles . This is an area that, despite the rush of tourists, holds onto its bohemian vibe and remains stubbornly eccentric. Some would even call it a little crazy. No matter who you are or what you like, this place will welcome you and offer people and attractions that suit your preferences.

What to do there : One of the best things to do in this area is people-watch, and you’ll find no shortage of fascinating and unusual people on the boardwalk. You’ll see everything from bodybuilders to skaters and everything in between. When or if you get sick of that, grab lunch at one of the many great restaurants or cafes in the area. Also, if you like to read then make sure you check out Small World Books for a kooky selection.

#2 – Rodeo Drive – A great place in Los Angeles if you love to shop!

• Made famous in some of the most popular movies and TV shows of all time.
• A great place for designer labels.
• The people watching in this area is amazing.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’ve seen the movie Pretty Woman , then you’ve seen Rodeo Drive. This is the shopping center of Los Angeles for people who enjoy designer everything and high-class, expensive boutiques. Just walking along this street can make you feel as if you’re on the set of a movie. It’s also located in Beverly Hills, which is one of the safest places in LA !

What to do there : Obviously you could drop a lot of cash in this area if you have it spare. You’ll find every prominent label in existence in this street, and none of them are cheap. But if you don’t have the money or any interest in buying designer clothes then it’s great to just window shop in this area. Also, if you enjoy architecture, make sure you check out the nearby Anderson Court, a shopping mall that was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

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#3 – Universal Studios Hollywood

• A place where movie lovers can indulge their hobby.
• Great for photographers who want that iconic shot of Los Angeles!
• Kids will love the rides and other attractions.

Why it’s so awesome : Universal Studios in Hollywood isn’t technically a studio for actors anymore, instead, it’s a theme park that celebrates everything to do with the movies. This is the place to come if you love Harry Potter , the Fast and the Furious or any other Universal Studio movie and want to walk in the footsteps of the stars. And it isn’t just for kids either. Apart from rides and shows, they also have bars and restaurants as well as rides that are based on shows that are too scary for kids!

What to do there : There’s no shortage of things to do at Universal . This is a place to take the kids, or a handful of your friends, and just be a child again. Check out the Walking Dead Attraction, watch a movie at the cinema, drink butterbeer at the Harry Potter-themed pub and go on all the rides. And if you’re looking for a little more of a thrill, watch the Water World Show, or try the Revenge of the Mummy ride for some real scares.

#4 – The Broad – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Los Angeles

• A new museum that’s generating a lot of buzz.
• Some truly spectacular displays of light and technology.
• Free admission!

Why it’s so awesome: This is a contemporary art museum with a difference. Not only is it free to get into, which makes it a great place to offset your spending in other places in Los Angeles, the displays are also groundbreaking. Particularly popular are the Infinity Mirrored Rooms, designed by Yayoi Kusama. These are mirrored rooms that reflect LED lights that go on forever, just as they do in space. The display is so popular that there’s usually a wait of hours to get in!

What to do there : Make sure you see the Infinity Mirrored Rooms but don’t miss the other displays either. The museum has several permanent displays as well as rotating ones. So check out what’s on before you go so you know what the must-sees are.

#5 – The Museum of Jurassic Technology – One of the more unique places to visit in Los Angeles!

• A fun and educational place.
• A pseudo-scientific nook in the center of the city.
• If you enjoy things that are quirky, you’ll enjoy a trip to this museum.

Why it’s so awesome : This museum mixes fact with fiction in a way that leaves you wondering which is which. Despite the name, it has nothing to do with the movie, instead, it focuses on scientific wonders both real and imagined. It’s a kooky little place and one that’s a nice break from the movie-obsessed city, so make sure you add it to your Los Angeles itinerary!

What to do there : This is a place to enjoy the oddities and try to work out what’s real and what’s not. There are a lot of weird things in this museum, from minuscule sculptures to bats that can fly through walls, and spending some time here is an exercise in getting your mind bent into a new shape!

#6 – Griffith Observatory

• Get in touch with some real stars while you’re in the city!
• A slightly strange observatory, because the light of the city means you can’t actually see much through the telescope.
• It has several fascinating and educational displays.

Why it’s so awesome : Los Angeles’ light pollution means that you can’t see any stars from the city, which might make an observatory seem a little redundant. However, there’s more than just a telescope at this place. You could easily spend a few hours here exploring the relationship between man and the rest of the universe through the exhibitions, so it’s well worth taking that time to just look around.

What to do there : While you’re there, make sure that you check out the Hall of the Eye and the Hall of the Sky displays. These two displays are connected and are fascinating enough that you probably won’t realize you’re actually learning more about man’s connection to the universe as you watch!

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#7- The Getty

• Great for lovers of fine art.
• One of the best collections of artwork in the world.
• There is art from almost every period in history, so you’ll definitely find something you like.

Why it’s so awesome : You wouldn’t think that Los Angeles would be home to one of the finest art collections in the world and yet the Getty contains just that. You’ll find art by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh as well as a very impressive collection of amazing photographs taken by some of the biggest names in this field.

What to do there : This is the type of collection that you need to take your time with. Make sure you look for your favorite artists but be open to new names as well. That’s the great things about places like this, they open your mind to all kinds of new possibilities.

#8 – The Hollywood Walk of Fame

• Find handprints left by today’s celebrities and old favorites too.
• A great place to take photos.
• One of the most iconic places in Los Angeles.

Why it’s so awesome : Everyone has heard about the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where more than 2,500 celebrities have their names and handprints immortalized in concrete. If you’re a film fanatic, or just want to take a photo next to your favorite star’s handprint, this is a great place to spend a little time.

What to do there: Browse the names. The Walk of Fame is larger than you might think and when you walk along with it, you’ll probably find a few names you hadn’t expected. This iconic spot isn’t as glitzy as it looks in the movies or on awards nights, but it’s well worth a look anyway.

#9 – Walt Disney Concert Hall

• Home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic.
• A spiky, metal covered building that’s impressive in its own right.
• There are over 250 concerts here a year.

Why it’s so awesome : If you enjoy music and architecture then this venue combines the two interests. The building itself was designed by Frank Gehry and is a spiky, strangely attractive building that juts into the air at seemingly random angles. But even if architecture isn’t your thing, the music here will make up for it. The acoustics are amazing, and the concerts are absolutely first-rate too.

What to do there : Make sure you take a photograph with this building in the background because it would make a quirky and interesting shot. Also, check the local programs to see what concerts are on while you’re in the city. The best of the best play here, and there’s nothing like seeing a great concert in a place that’s designed to get the most from the music.

#10 – TCL Chinese Theater – Cool place to see in Los Angeles with friends!

• A great place to get some photos.
• The building has welcomed some of the world’s biggest stars and it will welcome you too!
• You can see a movie and see where the stars have sat.

Why it’s so awesome : This is the prime spot for movie premiers in Los Angeles, which means that the biggest stars in the world have spent time in this theater. But if this second-hand celebrity encounter isn’t enough, the theater itself is still worth seeing. Its Chinese-style pagodas and temples are both iconic and striking and it’s an important symbol of America’s celebrity culture.

What to do there : You have to buy a ticket to see the inside of the theater but it’s free to just explore the courtyard. This building has become a symbol of celebrity culture and glamor because of its proximity to the Walk of Fame so you can get some great photos while you’re there, so make sure that you bring your camera with you . It’s worth buying a ticket to see a movie though if only so you can say that you’ve watched a movie in the same theater that’s held the world’s biggest stars.

#11 – Try To Escape From The Escape Game

Why it’s so awesome :If you are after something challenging, immersive but totally then then the LA Escape Game may be just what you are looking for. The Escape Game LA features a variety of different rooms which participants (that’s you and your crew) must try to escape from by working as a team, solving clues and completing puzzles.

What to do there : All of their games are designed to be suitable for everybody, from first-time players to experienced escapologists. No matter which one you decide to play, you’re sure to have an absolute blast!

#12 – Santa Monica Pier

• A great place to spend a sunny day eating junk food and riding a Ferris Wheel next to the ocean.
• If you like to people watch, this is a prime location for it.
• In the afternoon, the sunsets are spectacular from this location.

Why it’s so awesome : Sometimes it’s nice to remember that even in Los Angeles, there are places that offer ordinary fun. It isn’t all celebrities and high-end boutiques; the Santa Monica Pier offers the kind of fun that’s best enjoyed with friends or family. There’s a Ferris wheel, cotton candy, and amazing sunsets to enjoy at this location. So, take an afternoon and get reacquainted with things that were probably part of your childhood. It is one of the best day trips to take from LA .

What to do there : This is the place for old school fair activities. Ride the Ferris wheel and the roller coaster before you tuck in to typical fair food such as cotton candy and hot dogs. And stay late in the day because the sight of the sun setting over the Pacific is something that everyone should see at least once.

#12 – Farmers Market

• There’s a real sense of community and connection here that you’ll really enjoy.
• Great food and drink options.
• A prime spot for people watching.

Why it’s so awesome: The Farmers Market was founded in 1934 by a collective of farmers and nothing much has changed since that time. The market is held at 3rd and Fairfax, and it’s where all the locals go to enjoy good food, buy fresh goods, and enjoy a bit of community. There are now more than 85 shops at the market, and you’ll find everything from a barbeque place to a kebab stand there.

What to do there : All you need to do while you’re in this area is eat, drink and watch the people. This area has a laidback vibe that seems to conflict with the rest of the city. But this vibe has also contributed to the strong sense of community that the market has created. So just take your time and relax in the open-air bazaar, explore the many stores, and if you want to do some celebrity spotting afterwards then head down to The Grove shopping area nearby, where stars go to pick up the milk.

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#13 – Disneyland Park – Awesome place to visit in Los Angeles with kids!

• It’s Disneyland!
• Great for kids and adults who remember their childhood.
• You’ll get some amazing photos here and perhaps even see some favorite characters!

Why it’s so awesome : What isn’t awesome about Disneyland? It’s a place that’s dedicated to stories, to dreams, and to letting your imagination run wild. Of course, it’s also dedicated to outrageous prices, crowds, and heat, but you can ignore that for one day to see some of your favorite Disney characters walking around.

What to do there: There’s no end of things to do here with seven lands that are all dedicated to different themes and Disney cartoons. Make sure you try out rides like the epic Indiana Jones Adventure and the Grizzly River Run if you like a bit of a thrill. And if you’re not one for rides, then just stroll down Main Street USA. This is one of the main streets in Disneyland and there’s always something going on there from parades to fireworks and visiting Disney characters. Make sure you keep your camera at the ready!

#14 – Hollywood Bowl

• Made famous in movies and so much bigger in reality!
• Showcases everything from rock bands to the Philharmonic.
• Best of all, it’s completely casual, so take some food and a bottle of wine and enjoy!

Why it’s so awesome : This is a place where you can listen to music while you’re outside under the night sky. The venue plays host to a range of musical styles which are great on their own, but the real draw is the relaxed vibe. Chances are that cramming together in the bleachers and sharing your food with the people next to you will net you some new friends! And that’s what places like this are all about.

What to do there : While you’re in the city you absolutely must see a show at the Hollywood Bowl. And it doesn’t really matter which one either. The whole point of this place is to listen to music while you’re under the night sky. And this goal makes for a really relaxed atmosphere, so take your food and drink and share it with the people sitting next to you to make some new friends.

#15 – Griffith Park – One of the nicer places in Los Angeles to sightsee!

• A nice natural area where you can walk outside of the busyness of the city.
• There are a lot of different routes which will take you to various iconic spots in the city.
• If you don’t feel like walking, you can always go on horseback!

Why it’s so awesome : Chances are you’ll be getting around by car and by public transport while you’re in Los Angeles and sometimes there’s nothing better than taking a break from that and stretching your legs. And when you can do that in a place with panoramic and iconic views of the city, all the better!

What to do there : This park is extremely accessible and popular amongst locals and tourists alike. If you enjoy walking you can make it all the way up Mount Hollywood and be treated to views of the Los Angeles basin and the Hollywood sign. And if you’re a little more adventurous, you can hire a horse at the nearby private stables and take the specially marked trails to the same spots.

#16 – Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

• Has exhibits ranging from the start of art history to the present day.
• A great place for art lovers to spend some time.
• Educational and interesting.

Why it’s so awesome : This art museum has been modernizing of late, with more contemporary displays than ever before. You can see artwork from the ancient past as well as these more modern pieces and it will give you an education on art that you will never forget.

What to do there: This is a peaceful, enlightening place to spend an afternoon. Wander the halls and see through the eyes of some of the greatest artists who have ever lived. With that kind of inspiration, maybe you’ll get inspired to create something yourself!

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#17 – The Museum of Death – Quite the quirky place in Los Angeles!

• A spooky look at the past.
• It’s ideal for people who like to walk a little more on the macabre side.
• Good for anyone who’s interested in true crime.

Why it’s so awesome: This museum doesn’t shy away from the spookiest parts of humanity. It’s devoted entirely to the memorabilia left behind by some of the most infamous serial killers in history and other exhibits to do with murder and death. This is the place where you can look at some of history’s most famous and sadistic instruments of death and be reminded of just how precious life is.

What to do there : If you’ve ever been morbidly curious about crime scene photos or the most famous serial killers in history, you’ll learn about them here. Dahmer, the Manson Murders and original photos from the Dahlia Murders all have a place here. Basically, it’s a museum that will make you thoroughly creeped out about the people all around you.

#18 – The Underground Tunnels of Los Angeles – One of the most underrated places to see in Los Angeles

• Left behind from the days of Prohibition.
• A slightly creepy and sobering look at the past.
• A chance to get a look at a side of Los Angeles that most people never see.

Why it’s so awesome : These tunnels were once service tunnels, but during the days of Prohibition they became a way to transport liquor to speakeasies all around the city. During these long-ago days, the Major’s office ran the show, and people from all walks of life wandered around drinking below the law-abiding portion of the city.

What to do there : It’s an adventure in itself to find these tunnels. You need to go behind the Hall of Records on Temple Street where there’s an almost hidden elevator. The passages below are filled with strange street art, and gated where some areas have become unstable over the years. So remember to stay safe , take some friends with you, avoid the blocked-off areas, and just explore.

#19 – The Old Zoo Picnic Area

• A depressing look at how society treats animals.
• Educational and even important, but not an enjoyable lesson.

Why it’s so awesome : Modern zoos can sometimes be good places where the focus is on education and protecting endangered animals. But this isn’t always the case, and, in the past, it was hardly ever the case. The Old Zoo Picnic Area is a stark reminder of that reality. This zoo was closed in 1966 but some of the cages still remain, a reminder of a past that shouldn’t be forgotten.

What to do there : This is now a picnic area with benches and grills where you can hang out with your friends and have a nice meal. But don’t forget to at least acknowledge the other side of this place. There’s a trail that will take you up from the caves and around to more of the abandoned cages so you can experience just what it was like to be on the other side of the bars.

#20 – Necromance

• The best place to find souvenirs that are a little different than normal.
• Best for people who have a strong stomach.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’re tired of the usual souvenirs then check out this shop. Here you’ll find a wide range of antiques and oddities from medical instruments to stuffed animals. All of the goods in this shop are antiques and you could easily spend an hour or so looking at all the strangeness people have made through the ages!

What to do there : Make sure you buy something to take home. You obviously don’t have to choose something macabre like a Victorian bone saw, but there’s a wide range of goods available, so there will be something that will appeal to you or to someone you know!

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#21 – Hollywood Forever Cemetery

• Surrounded by lush, natural surroundings that are really beautiful considering what they contain.
• In the summer, they have film screenings in the park.
• Lots of olden day stars such as Estelle Getty and Johnny Ramone were laid to rest here.

Why it’s so awesome : This place is a slightly macabre look at celebrity culture and a reminder that nothing lasts forever. Even if you don’t like this lesson, the parks are truly beautiful and are listed on the National Register of Historic Sites, so they’re really worth seeing.

What to do there : If you like classic Hollywood films then make sure you attend one of the summer movie screenings and watch the action projected on the wall of a mausoleum! Just bring a blanket and some food and you can lie out under the stars and enjoy some classic cinema very close to where the stars of it could be buried. Apart from that, the cemetery is home to lots of stunning statues and mausoleums. So, if you’re interested in that kind of artwork then you’ll find lots of interesting examples when you walk around this site.

#22 – Phantasma Gloria – One of the more unique places to visit in Los Angeles!

• If you enjoy unusual art, then you’ll love this!
• By appointment only.

Why it’s so awesome : This is a sculpture that’s designed to capture the light in all its glory. Over 24 feet tall and 50 feet long, the artist has created this web on his property and eventually it will wrap all the way around his yard. It’s made of colored glass, wire, and colored water and will only get bigger over time!

What to do there : This sculpture is a marvel of engineering and inventiveness. It’s open by appointment only on Saturdays and Sundays between 10 and 4, when the sun hits it just right. While you’re there, look closely at the twists of wire and glass, you’ll see dolphins and other shapes within the carefully crafted sculpture and start to understand the intricacy of the artist’s vision.

#23 – Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels – One of the most religious places to see in Los Angeles

• An architecturally unique postmodern building.
• The building is extremely elaborate, with the doors alone priced at over 3 million dollars.
• The lower level contains the relics of an early Roman saint

Why it’s so awesome : This church is spectacular, and for the amount of money spent on its construction it really should be. The archbishop at the time wanted to make a statement with the Cathedral and spared absolutely no expense on its construction. He spent 5 million dollars on a table, 3 million on a single set of doors, and 2 million for the wooden ambo and it shows. The result is an opulent display that really draws attention.

What to do there : If you’re Catholic then this Cathedral would hold great significance. The lower level houses a crypt with more than 6000 church officials, Gregory Peck, and the relics left behind by the early Roman martyr Saint Vibiana. But even if you aren’t Catholic, it’s worth visiting the site just to take in the opulence and rich furnishings of this fortress-like construction.

#24 – Ennis House

• Made famous in movies and TV shows like  Haunted House ,  Blade Runner,  and  Buffy the Vampire Slayer.
• An architectural gem.
• A weird and quirky piece of construction that has to be seen to be believed.

Why it’s so awesome: The Ennis House was designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in the early 1920s and is a marvel of engineering and architecture. It was restored in the 1970s after rain and earthquake damage and was designated a Los Angeles Historic Cultural Monument in 1976.

What to do there : Visitors are only allowed into the building on rare occasions so make sure you keep your eyes open during your trip to see if there’s a chance you’ll be able to go inside. But even if you can’t, the exterior of the house is stunning on its own, and if you’re a fan of Buffy the Vampire Slayer , you’ll probably recognize the building as it was used during the iconic TV show!

#25 – Garden of Oz

• A fantastic place to get a quirky and unique photo op!
• A private garden that’s been turned into a showcase of color and magic.

Why it’s so awesome : This is a private garden in the Hollywood Hills that the owner has turned into a fantastical and whimsical space! Instead of concrete and dirt flower beds, you’ll find mosaics, thrones and fantastical creatures all over this area. It features hundreds of plants, a yellow brick road, and whimsical displays that bring to mind Munchkin land from the iconic movie.

There are also numerous thrones throughout the area, each of them dedicated to someone who’s important to the artist’s life. To that end, there’s a throne for Rosa Parks, the Dalai Lama, Elvis Presley and a friend of the artist who survived the Hiroshima bombing.

What to do there : This garden is on private property and the owner doesn’t give tours, though the neighborhood children apparently all have keys so they can play in the space. But if you’re interested, you can easily see most of the garden from the street and take in the whimsical beauty of the eclectic space.

#26 – Velaslavasay Panorama

• A stunning reminder of the past.
• This is 3D art with a difference!

Why it’s so awesome : If you want to see something truly unique then this is where to come. In the 1700s and 1800s, a new form of media was invented known as panoramic paintings. This was a form of 3D media that fell out of flavor when film and photos came along. Enormous paintings were displayed in circular rooms or on moving rollers to creating a moving landscape for the audience. And this venue is bringing back this old art form, with 360-degree displays that include light and sound.

What to do there : The display at this venue changes frequently so find out what’s on and go to see it. The shows include soundtracks as well as lights to create a truly 3-dimensional experience that has to be seen to be believed. A beautiful reminder of an old art form that deserves a place in today’s art world!

#27 – The Hollywood Sign

• Quite possibly the most famous site in Los Angeles.
• A great opportunity for a photo op.
• Built as a temporary advertisement that has stood the test of time!

Why it’s so awesome : Built-in 1923, the Hollywood sign was meant to last eight months but has become one of the most iconic sights in the city! You can see the sign in countless movies, TV shows, and celebrity photos and you really should own your picture of the sign too!

What to do there : It’s a fair hike up to the sign, around 45 minutes depending on how fast you go, and once you’re up there don’t try to climb or touch the fence that protects the site. Just take photos up there and take in the views. From this high-up landmark, you can see all of downtown Los Angeles, the Santa Ana Mountains and the Palos Verdes Peninsula. And you don’t have to stop at the sign either. If you want even better views, there are steps that go higher that will let you see even further and take in even more of the city.

#28 – Downtown – An awesome place to visit in Los Angeles for half a day!

• A perfect place to take a walking tour of Los Angeles’ architecture.
• You can do a walking tour on your own or there are a number of organized tours available.
• Lots of chances for pictures.

Why it’s so awesome : Los Angeles is a busy, exciting city and the best way to see it is on foot. By taking a walking tour on your own or with a group through the Downtown area you’ll be able to see some cool architecture and buildings that you recognize from the sets of movies and TV shows!

What to do there : Take lots of pictures while you’re wandering around. Los Angeles’s buildings range from Art Deco style to historic theaters and the mix is both interesting and indicative of the city’s history. If you do take an organized tour, make sure you book early as they’re popular, but you’ll also be fine walking around on your own. If you’re a fan of nightlife, then Downtown LA is also your best bet to find a hostel where you can stay close to all the fun.

#29 – Runyon Canyon Park – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Los Angeles

• An often-overlooked slice of nature in the city.
• A great place to get away from the city and breathe in the cleaner air.
• If you enjoy walking, hiking or running then there’s plenty of room here to really stretch out.

Why it’s so awesome : Green spaces in the middle of concrete and stone jungles are like gems in cities like Los Angles and this park is perfectly positioned to give you a break from the rush if you need it. It’s seldom visited by tourists which makes it the perfect place to have a rest before you dive back into the high-tech busyness of the city.

What to do there: There are some great views throughout the canyon. You can see the San Fernando Valley and the Pacific Ocean from selected spots as well as the Hollywood sign. This is a popular spot for the locals to exercise, so while you’re doing some hiking you might just see a celebrity keeping their world-famous body in shape too!

#30 – Peterson Automotive Museum

• A quirky, interesting building that looks great in photos.
• For car lovers of all kinds.
• Includes historical information as well as displays of famous movie cars!

Why it’s so awesome : This strange-looking building is located on the Miracle Mile, which was the first commercial development in the city that was designed for the benefit of drivers. And this museum celebrates that history in fine style. Apart from the historical information you’ll learn here, you’ll also get to see displays of some of the world’s most amazing cars, including the Batmobile!

What to do there : What else? Look at cars! You’ll be able to learn about the industrial process as it is today and as it was in the past and see an entire showroom dedicated to luxury vintage vehicles. If you’re a car buff, this will probably be your version of heaven. And even if you don’t like cars you can explore the driving simulation stations and augmented reality scavenger hunt experience.

#31 – La Brea Tar Pits and Museum

• A slightly quirky but still fascinating place.
• Another iconic location in Los Angeles.
• You’ll get some great photos here.
• Great for kids.

Why it’s so awesome : If your kids love dinosaurs, and what kids don’t, then they’ll love this museum. These tar pits have been bubbling for hundreds of thousands of years and more than a million animal bones have been found in their depths. And a lot of them are on display in the museum for your kids to marvel at.

What to do there : The tar pits are free, so check them out and take photos with your group or kids to mark the occasion. Then, if you’re interested in learning more, make sure you check out the attached museum to explore the creatures whose bones were preserved in the bubbling mess.

#32 – Zuma Beach

• Improve your tan and soak in the vibe of exclusivity.
• The activities here are first-rate so if you enjoy surfing or swimming, make sure you do it here.
• Great for kids and adults, with lots of facilities and lifeguards to make the day comfortable and safe.

Why it’s so awesome : This is Malibu, where everyone is beautiful and movie sets are everywhere and you can explore the same beaches you’ve probably seen in countless movies and on TV shows. Zuma Beach is a great place to explore that natural beauty and exclusive vibe, and it’s considered one of the best beaches in Los Angeles too.

What to do there: This is a beach where you should spend some time just people watching. But when you get sick of that, it’s a great place for activities too. The water is very clean, the waves are great for surfing and there are a lot of shops around where you can get a snack when you get tired of the sun. All in all, this beach makes for a great day in the sun!

#33 – Sunset Boulevard – A great place to visit in Los Angeles at night

• Don’t you want to get a photo on this iconic street?
• Made famous in some of history’s greatest movies.
• A beautiful, palm-lined street that still has great aesthetic appeal.

Why it’s so awesome : If you haven’t seen this street in movies then you probably never go to the theater. This street actually had a movie named after it, which is why people line up to take their picture under the street sign. And even if you’re not interested in that, the street is known for its nightlife and is lined with classic music venues where you can listen to some great tunes while you have a drink.

What to do there: Go there during the day to take your pictures in the sunlit streets and under the sign but also make sure you go there at night. Some of the bars and clubs here are legendary for their musical talent, including the Roxy Theater and the Rainbow Bar and Grill, so make sure you check them out.

#34 – Third Street Promenade

• Get some eclectic souvenirs and other goods here.
• An opening air shopping area with all the popular shops as well as some stranger options.
• Great restaurants in this area.

Why it’s so awesome : If you want to do some shopping in a slightly less touristy place then this shopping center is a good choice. You’ll find all your favorite shops here as well as some more unusual choices such as a toy shop obsessed with puzzles and a rare books shop.

What to do there: Visit your favorite shops while they’re there and available and see if you can get some bargains. Make sure that you have lunch while you’re in the area too, as the restaurants here are the best in the city. But it’s the promenade’s atmosphere that’s the most interesting, with street performers and a noisy, busy atmosphere that’s set up for anyone who wants to people watch.

#35 – Warner Brothers Studios

• A must see when you’re in Los Angeles.
• Home to hit shows and some of the biggest movies.

Why it’s so awesome: If you want to see iconic movie and TV sets and props then you’ll experience all that and more at this landmark venue. The Batmobile, Harry Potter props and shows like The Big Bang Theory and Ellen DeGeneres all have a home here and you’ll get to experience them all!

What to do there : This studio is located 5 miles north of Hollywood and is an easy trip from the city when you have a free afternoon. You can wander the grounds and get a tour guide to show you around. And unlike some other studio tours, when you visit this location you can even walk around working sets!

#36 – Greystone Mansion and Park – A nice quiet place to see in Los Angeles

• A relic from the golden age of Hollywood.
• One of the largest mansions in Los Angeles.
• Shows like  Gilmore Girls ,  Ghostbusters  and  General Hospital  were all shot on these grounds.
• Lots of photo ops.

Why it’s so awesome : If you’ve watched TV in the last ten years then you’ve probably seen shots of this mansion even if you didn’t know where it was at the time. Despite its popularity in the cinema and on TV, this is actually a neglected landmark that’s a quiet respite from the city. So if you’re looking for a little break in a beautiful garden with a koi pond, flowers, and fountains, then this is the place you’re looking for.

What to do there : You can’t go into the mansion, but the grounds are open to visitors. Make sure you have a good walk around and see if you recognize any areas from your favorite shows and take a photo to remember the moment. Apart from that, just enjoy the serenity and beauty of the gardens.

#37 – Paramount Pictures Studios

• The last movie studio still in Los Angeles.
• This studio has showcased some of the world’s best starts.
• Lots of photo ops here!

Why it’s so awesome : If you like movies then taking a tour around a place that makes them is an incredible treat. Some of the set designs from this studio’s most popular shows are still in place so you can walk into the scene and actually experience a part of the movie from the inside. As an added bonus, there are several different types of tours. So, if you like to walk, take the walking tour. And if you’re a little more restricted in what you can do or want to do, the golf cart tours are probably right for you.

What to do there : You can take a two-hour tour around the studio during which you’ll actually get to look at some incredibly famous sets all from the comfort of a golf cart. You can see the set of I Love Lucy , Titanic , or even Mission: Impossible . There’s also an After Dark tour for adults only where you’ll get to see some of the sets that aren’t really suitable for children.

Get insured for your trip to Los Angeles!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Los Angeles

What are the best places to visit in LA at night?

For some epic nightlife and great parties, check out these places in Los Angeles: – Sunset Boulevard – Venice Beach – Hollywood Bowl

What places are free to visit in Los Angeles?

Check out these free places to visit in Los Angeles: – The Broad – Venice Beach – Santa Monica Pier

What places in Los Angeles can you visit today?

Find out about the best tours, attractions and places to visit in Los Angeles on Klook . Everything that’s on today will be listed there. And if you want a more local experience, check out Airbnb experiences .

What are the coolest places to visit in Los Angeles?

Los Angeles is cool in itself, but a couple of places really stand out. Check them out: – Walt Disney Concert Hall – TCL Chinese Theater – Farmers Market

Los Angeles is often seen as a place that’s all surface and flash with nothing underneath and this reputation isn’t entirely undeserved. However, that doesn’t mean that there aren’t entertainment and food options for almost every taste in this sprawling city. After all, Los Angeles is a city that’s set up to enthrall and amuse, and it does both of these extremely well as you’ll see when working through this list.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Art Patterson

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Thanks Ashley Ryan for sharing this great information! It does not matter if its the first visit of Los Angeles (LA) or living in the city, as one of the most populated places globally has plenty of attractions to engage anyone like Los Angeles. The Broad, Hollywood Sign, Venice Beach Boardwalk, etc are one of the great examples of most attracted places in LA and having a charter bus rental ensures to have the best time on the trip.

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The Ultimate Los Angeles Itinerary

From the showbiz glamour of Hollywood and the upmarket shops of Rodeo Drive, to the bohemian vibes of Venice Beach, this Los Angeles itinerary will give you a great introduction to this buzzy Californian city.

Welcome to la la land! Los Angeles is one of California’s most popular travel destinations. The vast, sprawling city is home to the world’s movie industry, and a little of that Tinseltown magic can be felt all over the city.

However, there’s much more to Los Angeles than Hollywood – it’s one of the coolest and most vibrant cities in California. You’ll find gorgeous beaches, a great music scene and some of the best museums in the United States.

There’s no shortage of things to do in Los Angeles, and it’d be impossible to fit everything into one short trip. To help you plan your LA city break, and find the coolest things to do in 2 days in Los Angeles, I’ve popped together this Los Angeles itinerary – happy travelling!

When Is The Best Time to Visit Los Angeles? 

Southern California is well known for its sunshine, so it’s a popular place to visit all year round. I’d recommend visiting in spring, when temperatures hover around the low 20s, the days are sunny, and the crowds scarce.

Summer brings warmer weather, but also lots of tourists, so try to avoid if you can. Autumn is usually dry, hot and can be windy. Winter brings the chance of rain, although not much – this is Southern California after all!

Tour Hollywood

If you’re a first time visitor, start your Los Angeles itinerary in Hollywood, LA’s most iconic and stylish neighbourhood. Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame, where the star-studded sidewalks are a glittering reminder that this is a town filled with movie magic.

Don’t miss the Chinese Theatre, Paramount Studios, the Sunset Strip, and of course, the iconic Hollywood sign – one of the most popular things to see in Los Angeles.

If you start to get a little tired, there are plenty of cafes, bars and restaurants to choose from. 

Grab Lunch at Grand Central Market

LA’s iconic food hall, Grand Central Market, regularly tops the list of fun things to do in Los Angeles. After a busy morning of sightseeing in Hollywood, it’s a great place to stop and sample some of the best food in the city.

The beauty of this bustling food market is that you’ll find a little bit of everything inside. Whether you’re into tacos, BBQ, dim sum or Italian meatballs, Grand Central Market is the place for you!

Go Shopping in Beverley Hills

LA is the shopping capital of California, and Beverley Hills is home to some of the swankiest shops you’ll find in the city. Whether you like to window shop, or are prepared for a big splurge, wandering through Rodeo Drive and the boulevards of Beverley Hills is a real treat. 

You won’t just find clothes stores either – this is a great place to come for local produce, books, homewares, wine and beauty products.

Go On A Walking Tour Of Los Angeles

If you’re looking for a fun way to explore the city on foot, take a look at Around walking tours in Los Angeles . Pick one of the self-guided walking tours, which has been put together by an LA expert. The movie history one sounds particularly interesting. These tours are great if you want a flexible way to explore a destination on your own time, with no strict schedules or big tour groups!

Ride The Ferris Wheel At Pacific Park

Pacific Park, located on the Santa Monica Pier, is one of LA’s top attractions.

This theme park has everything you need for a fun afternoon, including some adrenaline-fuelled rides and roller coasters.

The park boasts the only solar-powered ferris wheel in the world, lifting passengers 130 feet in the air and offering unbeatable views of the Los Angeles shoreline.

Visit One Of LA’s Museums

LA is home to some fabulous museums, and at least one should feature on any Los Angeles itinerary. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is one of the best, and boasts a large collection of modernist masterpieces.

For something a little unusual, head to the Getty Center, for wonderful impressionist collections and fabulous ocean views.

Alternatively, book-lovers will marvel at the Huntingdon Library, Art Collection and Botanical Gardens – a wonderful green space with countless treasures to uncover.

Stroll Along Venice Beach Boardwalk

If the Hollywood glitz and glamour isn’t for you, head to Venice Beach for something a little more bohemian. The Venice Beach boardwalk is an ocean front promenade packed with performers, musicians, magicians, skaters, restaurants and shops.

This is the perfect place to come for an antidote to LA city life and to soak up the fabulous ocean views.

Explore Griffith Park

One of the best things about Los Angeles is the easy access from the city to some beautiful natural spots. Griffith Park, spanning more than 4,000 acres of urban wilderness, provides a great contrast to the hustle and bustle of the city.

Take a hike along one of the many walking trails, visit the Griffith Observatory (yep – that’s the place from the movie La La Land ), or visit Los Angeles Zoo and Botanical Garden. Whatever you choose, a visit to Griffith Park is a real breath of fresh air on any Los Angeles itinerary.

Stay at a Luxurious Hotel in Los Angeles

If you’re visiting Los Angeles for a special occasion, how about living the true movie star life with a stay at one of the top-rated hotels in the city. Here are a few of my favourites…

The Peninsula Beverly Hills

A stone’s throw from the main shopping drag of Rodeo Drive, the Peninsula Beverly Hills offers decadent luxury in the heart of one of Los Angeles’ chicest neighbourhoods.

This stunning hotel, built in a French style, is gorgeous inside and out, especially at night when it’s all lit up.

There’s a fabulous spa, luxurious rooms, and wonderful fine-dining restaurant, The Belvedere. However, the real stand-out feature of this place is the service – you’ll be made to feel like a star, so enjoy it!

Check availability and latest prices at the Peninsula Beverly Hills here

Shutters on the Beach

Santa Monica is one of Los Angeles’ finest beach towns. It’s where you’ll find locals, celebrities and Hollywood stars soaking up a little sun, sand and surf.

Shutters on the Beach is one of the best 5-star hotels in Santa Monica, and it has everything you’ll need for a luxurious beach holiday. With uninterrupted beach views, beautifully decorated interiors, and world-class facilities, this is the place to come for some seaside downtime.

Check availability and latest prices at Shutters on the Beach here

1 Hotel West Hollywood

If you’re looking for an eco-friendly way to indulge, why not try 1 Hotel West Hollywood, a new addition on the Sunset Strip known for its eco-friendly ethos. You won’t find any single-use plastics here and much of the striking décor is made from naturally fallen trees and other sustainable products.

However, this doesn’t mean you’ll be scrimping on luxury. Enjoy the fabulous valley views from the rooftop pool, and make the most of a whole range of wellness facilities, or indulge at one of the excellent restaurants, which serve fresh, local produce.

Check availability and latest prices at 1 Hotel West Hollywood here

Tours in Los Angeles

Warner Bros. Studios Hollywood Tour

For over a century LA has been the heartland of movie making, and you can’t visit without a taste of what it’s like to get in front of the cameras on a real life movie set.

This tour will take you behind the scenes of epic films, where you can ride the Batmobile, try out Harry Potter’s broomstick, and even re-enact your favourite scene from Friends’ in Central Perk. 

Check availability and latest prices here

Los Angeles Helicopter Night Flight

If you’re looking for the ultimate addition to your Los Angeles bucket list , how about taking to the skies to view the City of Angels from the air.

This 30 minute night flight will take you over the city to see the illuminations from above. You’ll cruise over the downtown skyline as it glows, spotting familiar landmarks such as the iconic Hollywood sign, Griffith Observatory, Hollywood Sign, Sunset Boulevard and more.

Looking for other cool places to visit in California? Don’t forget to check out my San Francisco itinerary , which is packed full of amazing food recommendations, fun day trips and great views.  

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Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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Vacations in Los Angeles

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Cheap Los Angeles package deals

Most popular los angeles flight and hotel deals, last minute vacation packages to los angeles, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a vacation in los angeles, tips for finding los angeles package deals.

• There are loads of types of vacations in Los Angeles and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $501; Family vacation $469; Romantic vacation $706; Luxury vacation $742; Budget vacation $326.

Why should you book a vacation package to Los Angeles?

People often underestimate LA's vast city sprawl. Some of the popular locations include Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Anaheim, with locals flocking to coastal haunts like Long Beach and Huntington Beach. As a rule of thumb, the closer you are to the ocean, the higher the cost and quality of your Los Angeles hotel.

When should you book a vacation package to Los Angeles?

Due to the year-round temperate weather, the best time to visit Los Angeles is generally in the spring and summer when cultural activities start picking up, including Pasadena's "Rose Festival Parade" and the popular "Coachella" music festival just outside of the city.

Where should you stay in Los Angeles during your vacation?

For any vacation type in los angeles:.

The Millenium Biltmore in east Los Angeles offers timeless décor with easy access to downtown public transportation. Upon your arrival, you'll find a transfer via airport shuttle from Los Angeles International Airport.

The Georgian Hotel in Santa Monica will have you feeling like you've stepped into a Wes Anderson kaleidoscope just steps from the popular downtown pier. Consider taking a taxi, uber, or lyft from the nearby LAX airport to avoid having the stress of dealing with the notorious Los Angeles traffic.

For family vacations in Los Angeles:

The Sheraton Getaway Hotel seamlessly blends convenience and comfort with an outdoor pool, on-site restaurant, and conference rooms. Its convenient location on the grounds of LAX Airport makes it easy to take a complimentary shuttle to the terminal.

The Hilton Los Angeles in Universal City puts you right at the Universal Studios park entrance, with all the quality customer service you would expect from an internationally recognized hotel brand. Airport shuttles are available for visiting hotel guests and may also include free transfers to the nearby park.

For romantic vacations in Los Angeles:

The Queen Mary in Long Beach is an iconic landmark that offers elegant décor, gourmet dining, and evening shows. Convenient transfers from Long Beach Airport to the hotel via pre-arranged shuttle bus are available when you book your Los Angeles getaway online.

The Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows is perfectly situated next to the Santa Monica Pier and Venice Beach. Consider taking a taxi, uber, or lyft for the fastest travel times between this beachside hotel and Los Angeles International Airport just a few miles to the south.

For luxury vacations in Los Angeles:

The Langham Huntington in Pasadena provides a stately grandeur with sweeping grounds, luxury spa services, and the perfect backdrop of the San Gabriel mountains. Pasadena's upscale city planning makes renting a car the best choice for transferring between Langham Huntington and Los Angeles International Airport.

The Ritz Carlton in downtown Los Angeles puts you in the center of the action while also providing a great vantage point of the city from the rooftop pool. Easily transfer from LAX Airport to downtown via taxi or airport shuttle service.

For budget vacations in Los Angeles:

The Ayres Hotel Manhattan Beach offers European-style boutique accommodation conveniently located next to LAX International Airport. This convenient location makes it easy to grab a taxi, uber, or lyft for a quick transition to the Ayres Hotel in Hawthorne.

Hyatt House Cyprus Anaheim is perfectly situated near to several Los Angeles theme parks including Disneyland, California Adventure, and Knotts Berry Farm. A rental car is the easiest way to transfer between LAX Airport and other Southern California attractions.

Where to stay in Los Angeles

Los angeles vacation information, other popular package vacation destinations.

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Summer Vacation in Los Angeles: What to Do?

Of all four seasons, summer is the best time for outdoor exploration and there is no better place to enjoy the sunlight than the City of Angels. It is a beautiful place with some of the best beaches in the United States and home to your favorite Hollywood stars. As you plan your next summer in LA, read this piece to find the best things to do to make the most out of your holiday.

Your Outdoor Summer in Los Angeles 

When you hear LA the first thing that comes to mind is sunbathing on the beach. However, LA has a lot more to offer other than beaches including: 

1. Go swimming in Raging Waters Park 

Sitting proudly in the heart of Wildwood’s boardwalk is Raging Waters Park. It is an exciting water park that has a series of thrilling activities for both adults and children. There are many things to try, such as wave pools and water slides. Raging Waters is the perfect destination for water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The environment is child-friendly and perfect for families. You can visit the official Raging Waters website to  buy tickets now !

2. Hiking through amazing trails

Can you call yourself an outdoor lover if you don’t enjoy hiking? Schedule a full day of walking to burn some calories and enjoy stunning views in LA. Places like The Santa Monica Mountains, Sturtevant Falls, Angeles National Forest, and Paradise Falls In Wildwood Park, Thousand Oaks are among the most beautiful trails in the region.

3. Treat your taste buds 

If you enjoy delicious foods and would like to try new things, LA has different options for you. You and your loved ones can enjoy luxurious evening dining at the Providence of The Bazaar, Rolling Greens On Mateo, or 71Above. If you want street food, you can stroll through Grand Central Market and enjoy a little of everything. 

4. Go to the Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica Pier is a classic Southern California attraction. You can ride the Ferris wheel, play games at the arcade, and enjoy fresh seafood at the restaurants. It’s a lively place to spend a summer evening.

5. Sample the culinary scene

LA is a food lover’s paradise with a diverse culinary scene. Don’t miss the chance to try a variety of cuisines, from gourmet food trucks to upscale dining. Try some famous local dishes like fish tacos or Korean BBQ to really get a taste for the area.

Vacation in LA

When you vacation in LA, you can plan a full month of activities and not have to repeat a single venue. Pack your bags, get ready, and start exploring everything Los Angeles has to offer.

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Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

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Los Angeles Travel Guide

Last Updated: March 12, 2024

Los Angeles takes some getting used to. It’s a love/hate city for most people. When I first visited Los Angeles, I hated it . The city was too big, too vapid, and too expensive.

But, the more I came here, I the more I saw that this isn’t a city for tourists — it’s a city for residents. With only a few tourist attractions, this is a city where you enjoy life: eat, drink, go to the beach, go for a run, and see a concert. It’s a city for living .

Once you take the pressure of trying to fit Los Angeles into the tourist box, you see the magic of the city. Come here, relax, eat, listen to music, go for a hike, and just enjoy the little area you find yourself in.

This travel guide to Los Angeles will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your time in this iconic destination.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Los Angeles

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Los Angeles

1. Take a day trip to Disneyland

Visit the “Happiest Place on Earth” in nearby Anaheim. I love the rides — like Haunted Mansion and Space Mountain — and just feeling like a kid. Don’t miss the new Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, with its popular Rise of the Resistance ride (it’s worth the price). Other popular rides include the Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise, and Indiana Jone’s Adventure. A one-day/one-park ticket starts $104 USD.

2. See Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood Boulevard has recently gone through some urban renewal and renovation. See the sidewalk street performers and enjoy the Walk of Fame (with over 2,700 celebrities’ handprints and footprints), Grauman’s Chinese Theatre (now known as TCL Chinese Theatre, which features one of the largest movie screens in the country), and much more. You can also hop on a tourist bus to see where the rich and famous live and work.

3. Tour the Getty Museum

The Getty Museum is amazing for four reasons: its impressive art collection, its dramatic Richard Meier architecture, its ever-changing gardens, and the sweeping views of the city. Opened in 1997, the museum focuses on pre-20th-century European art as well as and 19th- and 20th-century American and European photographs. It features work by Van Gogh, Gauguin, and other masters. Visiting here was a highlight of my time in LA. It’s free to enter, however, you have to pay to park ($20 USD). It’s closed on Mondays.

4. Explore Griffith Park

This place is great for hiking, picnics, and hanging around with friends. The hiking trails lead up to Mulholland Drive and provide great views of the city. Griffith Park has many activities, including the LA Zoo, the Autry Western Museum, pony rides, a golf course, a driving range, and an observatory. Think of it like Central Park in New York City but much larger (it spans 4,310 acres versus Central Park’s 843 acres) and much more rugged. There’s also plenty of wildlife here, including mountain lions, rattlesnakes, and coyotes. Guided hikes are available too if you prefer to go with a group.

5. Relax at Venice Beach

Besides the sand and waves, Venice Beach has street performers, surfers, skaters, and intense basketball games (some of the best streetball players in the world can be found here). Wander around, take in the street art, and eat and drink at many of the restaurants that line the beach. Avoid the weekends if you’re heading to the beach as it gets crowded. It’s just one of the best places to hang out in the city.

Other Things to See and Do in Los Angeles

1. tour universal studios hollywood.

Universal Studios Hollywood is the only working movie studio and theme park in the world. Their Studio Tour lasts one hour and gives you a behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood, including a visit to the plane crash scene from War of the Worlds, Peter Jackson’s King Kong, the Bates Hotel from Psycho, and cars from Fast & Furious (the tour is hosted by Jimmy Fallon on video). The theme park is home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Jurassic World, The Simpsons ride, special effects shows, and more. A one-day ticket costs $109 USD while a two-day pass starts at $149 USD. Get your tickets in advance here. )

2. Party on Sunset Boulevard

Perhaps one of the world’s most famous streets in the world, Sunset Blvd began as a route between the stars’ posh neighborhoods and the Hollywood studios. It runs from downtown to the ocean, passing through the “Sunset Strip” with its beaches and movie studios on its way. Spend some time cruising the street and see if you can spot any celebs!

3. Explore Old Town Pasadena

Historic downtown Pasadena is located just ten minutes from Los Angeles. Its pedestrian-friendly zone is designated as a National Register Historic District and stretches for twenty-two blocks. It’s filled with boutique shops and restaurants and is also a popular nightspot for all of you party animals out there. It’s an eclectic area where people of all ages come to hang out.

4. Shop at the Farmers Market & The Grove

There’s a great farmer’s market here with loads of fresh bread, fruit, veggies, and a delicious food court. Nearby is an outdoor shopping area featuring all the major brands as well as a movie theater. It’s a nice place to spend an afternoon. You can also learn the history of the farmers market while sampling some of its food with Melting Pot Tours (tours are $85 USD).

5. Take a walk on the beach

Los Angeles beaches are a great place to go for a walk, people-watch, or just lounge in the sun. Venice Beach and Santa Monica are two of the most famous beaches. The Santa Monica Pier, built in 1909, is also a fun way to spend an afternoon thanks to its carnival-like atmosphere right on the beach (it has several rides, greasy food stalls, and carnival games). Huntington Beach, Redondo Beach, and Playa del Rey are some of the other popular beaches around the city as well.

6. Visit the Huntington Library

This beautifully-designed library in nearby Pasadena includes a Chinese and Japanese garden. Additionally, the library has some incredibly rare and valuable books, including a copy of The Canterbury Tales from the 15th century and a 14th-century Gutenberg Bible (which you can see on display in the Main Exhibition Hall). It’s open 10am-5pm Wednesday-Monday (closed Tuesdays) and tickets are $25 USD during the week and $29 USD on weekends.

7. Explore the California Science Center

This kid-friendly attraction has a variety of educational exhibits on topics ranging from ecosystems (complete with forest, river, and island habitats) to space and aviation. The biggest highlight is the American space shuttle, Endeavor, which ran 25 space missions between 1992-2011 for NASA. It’s free to visit but parking costs $15-18 USD and you have to pay extra for special exhibits and IMAX movies (usually $10-20 USD).

8. Go for a hike

Los Angeles has a lot of wonderful hiking and running trails, the most famous being Runyon Canyon. There are some well-marked routes, including a 1.9-mile (3-kilometer) loop and a 2.6-mile (4-kilometer) loop (with higher elevation gain). There’s also a more strenuous 3.3-mile (5-kilometer) hike to the top of the park too. Caballero Canyon (3.4 miles), Fryman Canyon Park (2.5 miles), and Los Liones Trail (3.5 miles) are three other easy trails around the city you can hike too.

9. See the iconic Hollywood Sign

You can hike up to the famous Hollywood sign using trails that are open from sunrise until sunset in Griffith Park. From the sign, you get a sweeping view of Hollywood (which is especially beautiful at sunset with the city lights spread out in front of you). The three trails to get here (from easiest to hardest) are the Mt Hollywood Trail, the Brush Canyon Trail, and the Cahuenga Peak Trail. Expect to spend at least a couple of hours hiking. If you’d rather go with a group, guided hikes from Get Your Guide last 2.5 hours and cost $25 USD.

10. Visit the Grammy Museum

With exhibits, interactive experiences, artifacts and costumes, and numerous films, this museum walks you through the entire music industry and its history as well as the careers of previous Grammy winners. It’s not a highlight of the city, but if you’re a music aficionado, it’s one of the best things to do. Admission is $18 USD.

11. Browse The Last Bookstore

This is one of my favorite bookstores in the country (and one of the few remaining big independent ones). They sell books and music records, have art displays, and there’s a cool upstairs area too with books for as little as $1 USD. Located downtown, this space is huge, and you can get lost browsing the shelves for hours. Come here, get a coffee, and buy some books! It’s a must see.

12. Visit LACMA

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is the largest museum in the western United States. It boasts a massive collection of artwork including works by Rembrandt, Cézanne, Ansel Adams, and Magritte. There’s also ancient artwork from around the world, including Egyptian, Greek, and Roman sculptures. There’s modern art here too, including Michael Heizer’s 340-ton boulder which is wedged over a narrow walkway. Tickets are $25 USD.

13. See La Brea Tar Pits

These natural tar pits are in Hancock Park, where the tar has been trapping and fossilizing animals since the Ice Age. More than 3.5 million fossils have been found here, ranging from small honeybees to giant mammoths. This includes thousands of dire wolves! And scientists are still uncovering fossils here nearly every day of the year. It’s right next to LACMA too so you can do both together. Admission is $15 USD (closed Tuesdays).

14. Explore downtown

Downtown has experienced a complete revitalization in recent years, including a brand-new pedestrian center with museums, concert halls, theaters, and dining options. If you do just one thing here, visit the Grand Central Market. It’s home to 40+ of downtown’s best food vendors, including the original Eggslut. You can find literally any type of food here. I love it.

15. Walk Abbot Kinney Blvd.

Near Venice Beach, this boulevard is chock full of diverse shops, galleries, restaurants, and bars. There are all kinds of quirky businesses to pop into and on First Friday (the first Friday of each month), the street gets taken over by live music and food trucks. This is one of the hippest spots in the city. There’s a ton of things going on here and it’s filled with locals at all hours of the day.

16. Visit the Beyond Baroque Literary Arts Center

This center is one of the most successful literary arts incubators in the country, with alumni like Tom Waits and Wanda Coleman. There’s regular programming here like readings, workshops, and musical performances, as well as a bookstore and archive with over 40,000 books. If you’re a book nerd like me, you’ll love this place!

17. Hang out in Palisades Park

Palisades Park in Santa Monica is a eucalyptus-filled park between the beach area and Ocean Avenue, where you get scenic views over the ocean and of the Santa Monica Mountains. It’s a chill spot to relax and explore. Make sure you stop by the Camera Obscura, an antiquated camera that offers a unique view of the world outside. It’s free to visit and closed on Sundays. (Camera currently closed for COVID).

18. Admire Greystone Mansion

Located in Beverly Hills, this is a Tudor Revival surrounded by landscaped English gardens. Also known as Doheny Mansion, the mansion was built in the 1900s as a gift from oil tycoon Edward L. Doheny to his son (the film There Will Be Blood is loosely based on Doheny). It eventually became a public park in the 1970s and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976. The mansion has a whopping 55 rooms and cost around 70 million dollars (adjusted for inflation), making it the most expensive home in California at the time. The mansion is open to the public on the first Sunday of every month but the grounds are free to visit anytime. It’s a beautiful, relaxing place to go for a stroll or sit with a book when the sun is shining.

19. Enjoy Koreatown

This is one of the most fun spots to enjoy the city’s nightlife. There are tons of tasty BBQ restaurants, lively bars and clubs, and fun karaoke places. It’s a must for foodies though, with over 500 restaurants in the area. The neighborhood was established in the early 1900s by Korean immigrants and has grown into a vibrant part of town that spans over 150 blocks. Don’t miss Dawooljung, the first traditional Korean monument built in the city, and be sure to feast on mouth-watering Korean BBQ while you’re here.

20. Explore Silver Lake

This hip neighborhood is home to cool cafes, trendy shops, vegan restaurants, and boutique galleries. It’s essentially the Brooklyn of LA, named after the Silver Lake Reservoir, which offers a nice 2.25-mile loop where locals walk and jog. It’s a laid-back spot that most tourists skip so you won’t be surrounded by tourists!

21. Do a Studio Tour

Warner Bros., Universal, Sony, and Paramount all offer studio tours where you can see famous sound stages like the one used in The Wizard of Oz , props from hit movies (like the bench from Forrest Gump ), and so much more. Most tours last 1-2 hours and either involve walking or riding a tram/bus. Prices vary but start around $70 USD per person. Tickets sell out fast so be sure to book in advance. You can get tickets for Warner Bros. here and tickets for Universal here .

  For more information on other cities in the United States, check out these guides:

• Austin Travel Guide
• Boston Travel Guide
• Chicago Travel Guide
• Hawaii Travel Guide
• Las Vegas Travel Guide
• Miami Travel Guide
• New York Travel Guide
• Philadelphia Travel Guide
• San Francisco Travel Guide
• Seattle Travel Guide
• Washington D.C. Travel Guide

Los Angeles Travel Costs

Hostel prices – Prices here vary widely depending on where you stay in the city, though the prices are fairly consistent year-round. Unfortunately, prices aren’t cheap. Dorm rooms start around $30-50 USD per night and go as high as $80 USD. A basic private room with an ensuite bathroom costs around $80-100 USD per night. Free Wi-Fi is standard and most hostels also have self-catering facilities. Only a couple of hostels offer free breakfast.

Budget hotel prices Budget two-star hotels cost around $100 USD per night, though most are closer to $125-150 USD. Expect basic amenities like Wi-Fi, AC, TV, and a tea/coffee maker. Three-star hotels start around $130 USD but most cost between $160-200 USD per night. These generally include free breakfast too.

There are also lots of Airbnb options in Los Angeles. A private room starts around $85 USD per night (but averages double that) while entire homes/apartments start around $150 USD per night (if you don’t book early you should expect to pay double or even triple that price).

Food – Los Angeles has lots of food trucks and fast food options for under $10-15 USD. It’s the city of food trucks and anything and everything can be found here. You can get a hearty crepe or sandwich for around $10-12 USD while tacos go for about $3-5 USD each.

At casual restaurants, most main dishes cost around $15-18 USD. If you want to splash out on a three-course meal, expect to pay at least $50-60 USD.

For fast food (think McDonald’s), a combo meal is around $9 USD. A large pizza is $10-15 USD while Chinese food is $11-13 USD.

Beer is around $8 USD while a latte/cappuccino costs around $4.75 USD. Bottled water is $2 USD.

Some of my favorite places to eat are Jitlada, Cafe Los Feliz, The Butcher’s Daughter, Uzumaki Sushi, Frank & Musso’s, Dan Tana’s, Bay Cities Italian Deli, and Meals by Genet. For drinks, check out No Vacancy, Hotel Cafe, Roosterfish, Firestone Water Brewery, and Good Times at Davey Wayne’s.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay $50-75 USD per week for groceries. This gets you basic staples like pasta, rice, vegetables, and some meat.

Backpacking Los Angeles Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Los Angeles, expect to spend around $75 USD per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, using public transportation, cooking your own meals, and free attractions like the beaches and hiking. If you plan on drinking, add $10-20 USD more per day.

On a mid-range budget of $190 USD per day, you can stay in a private hostel room or Airbnb, eat out for most of your meals, enjoy a couple drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities like visiting some museums or going to Disneyland for a day.

On a “luxury” budget of $390 USD or more per day, you can stay in a hotel, eat out anywhere you want, drink as much as you’d like, rent a car to get around or take more taxis, and do as many tours and activities as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages – some days you spend more, some days you spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in USD.

Los Angeles Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Los Angeles can be super expensive. After all, some of the country’s wealthiest people live here! But, thanks to all the food trucks and starving artists, you don’t have to be rich to visit. Here are some ways to save money in Los Angeles:

• Purchase a Go Los Angeles Card – If you are going to do lots of sightseeing, this card provides discounts to 40 museums, tours, and attractions. It’s priced to save you money when compared to buying separate tickets. A one-day unlimited pass is $99 USD while the two-day unlimited pass is $149 USD. You can also build your own pass, with one-day/two-attraction passes starting at $83 USD.
• Avoid celebrity hangouts – Hollywood and Beverly Hills are the two areas you can see the most celebrities but also the two areas where you can spend the most money. While they’re fun to explore, avoid shopping and eating there!
• Redeem hotel points – Be sure to sign up for hotel credit cards before you go and use those points when you travel. This is especially helpful in big cities like LA, where accommodation is expensive. If you have lots of points, use them here and get free rooms! Be aware that most hotels charge parking fees if you have a car. This post has more information on how to get started with points and miles .
• Stay with a local – There are plenty of Couchsurfing hosts throughout the city who can show you around and let you stay for free. In an expensive and ever-changing city like LA, having a local guide can be extremely helpful! Just make sure to send your requests early since it’s a popular destination.
• Take a free walking tour – This is a great way to learn the history behind the places you are seeing and to avoid missing any must-see stops. Free Tours By Foot has a few interesting walking tours that can show you what the city has to offer. Just make sure to tip your guide!
• Save money on rideshares – Uber and Lyft are cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi. The shared/pool option (where you share a ride with other people) offers the best savings.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here is safe to drink so bring a reusable water bottle to save money and reduce your single-use plastic consumption. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter that ensures your water is always safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Accommodation is expensive in Los Angeles. Since the city is so spread out, before you book, make sure you have a spot in the location where you want to spend most of your time. Otherwise, you’ll be driving a lot. Here are some recommended places to stay in Los Angeles:

• Freehand Los Angeles
• HI Los Angeles Santa Monica
• Banana Bungalow Hollywood
• Samesun Venice Beach

For more hostel suggestions, check out my complete list of the best hostels in Los Angeles.

How to Get Around Los Angeles

Public Transportation – The Los Angeles Metro involves both rail and bus service. It’s the most accessible and affordable way to get around the city, with tickets costing just $1.75 USD each way.

Get a TAP Card (you can find them at TAP machines within bus or train stations) so you can load a preset cash value onto the card to be used on all buses and trains. You can get a day pass for $7 USD or a seven-day pass for $25 USD. The subway is kind of sketchy though but super convenient if you are staying downtown or in Hollywood. The line from downtown to Santa Monica takes as long as driving because of all the stops.

Flyaway buses go from LAX to downtown and Hollywood for $9.75 USD one-way.

Taxis – Taxis can be hard to flag down, but you can download the Curb app to request one in advance. Everything is meter-based, starting at $4 USD and then $2.70 USD per mile.

Ridesharing – Uber and Lyft are way cheaper than taxis and are the best way to get around a city if you don’t want to take a bus or pay for a taxi.

Bike rental – While I wouldn’t recommend renting a bike if you’re in the middle of the city (traffic is terrible), once you get out to the coast then renting a bike might be a fun way to explore. Expect to pay around $30 USD per day for a rental. There is also a bike share program called Metro Bike Share that offers $5 USD daily rentals as long as each ride is less than 30 minutes.

When to Go to Los Angeles

Summer is the peak season for tourism in LA, with temperatures soaring to 85°F (30°C). This drives everybody to the beaches. Attractions get crowded during the summer and accommodation prices increase so be sure to book early. On the plus side, it hardly ever rains during the summer.

March-May and September-November (the shoulder seasons) are my favorite times to visit Los Angeles. It’s warm, but there’s no sticky heat and the crowds are less oppressive. Temperatures during these months are between 69-80°F (21-27°C), with very little rain.

December is the coldest month overall, but it’s much cheaper for accommodation if you want to save some cash. Just pack some rain gear if you’re coming in the winter. Expect daily highs around 68°F (21°C).

How to Stay Safe in Los Angeles

Overall, Los Angeles is a safe place to visit. If you stick to touristy areas like Hollywood, Santa Monica, and Beverly Hills, you’ll be fine. There are some questionable areas downtown (like Skid Row) as well as nearby South Central, which should be avoided. Avoid Compton too.

You’re biggest issue is going to petty crime, like theft and bag snatching. Petty crime has been on the rise over the last couple of years and it’s something you definitely want to watch out for. As a general rule, don’t wear flashy jewelry, wave around cash, and just keep your valuables secure and hidden when you are eating outside. Don’t bring anything valuable to the beach just in case as theft can occur.

If you have a vehicle, keep it locked at all times and don’t leave any valuables in it overnight.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (don’t leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk around at night intoxicated, etc.).

Los Angeles also has some pretty unique scams. For example, if you’re approached by someone who says they’re a Hollywood producer, director, or casting agent, they could be legit. However, chances are they’re just trying to scam you into paying fees upfront. Ask for a business card and do your due diligence.

Additionally, be wary of people offering Hollywood tours or discounts on open-air bus tours. Do your research and stick to well-known providers to avoid getting ripped off.

To avoid getting ripped off, read about common travel scams to avoid here .

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

Always trust your gut instinct. Make copies of your personal documents, including your passport and ID.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Los Angeles Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Los Angeles Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on United States travel and continue planning your trip:

How to Experience Milwaukee Like a Local

The 7 Best Hotels in New York City

The 7 Best Hotels in Miami

Where to Stay in Miami: The Best Neighborhoods for Your Visit

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The 6 Best Hotels in Austin

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The best times to visit Los Angeles

Feb 21, 2024 • 5 min read

Choose the best time for your visit to LA with this guide to what's happening through the year © lechatnoir / Getty Images

Home to sun-drenched beaches , iconic boulevards and endless experiences , visitors flock to  Los Angeles  throughout the year.

While the city may not be too distinctive seasonally, each period brings its own magic. From the vibrant springtime blooms, contagious energy of summer, spooky delights of fall, and enchanting holiday magic of winter, there is always something happening. 

So when is the best time to visit this urban paradise? The good news is, there's no such thing as a bad time. Whether you're looking to soak in the sunshine, skip the crowds, or stick to a tighter budget , we can help you choose the right time for yo

March to May is the best time for perfect weather and fewer crowds

Spring in Los Angeles brings comfortable temperatures, blooming landscapes and longer days. Daily highs hover around 75°F, lows rarely fall below 45°F, and the chance of the occasional rainshower is typically nonexistent.

March to May draws fewer crowds to the city, making it a popular and more convenient time to soak in the many attractions. Whale watching is a favored choice for sealife enthusiasts as it's migration season. Spring sees 20,000 gray whales travel via Los Angeles from the Arctic to their breeding and calving grounds in Baja California, Mexico. There are many tours to witness this firsthand, particularly in Long Beach and Orange County. 

Those who love the sights of fresh blooms should visit Descanso Gardens . While open year-round, the 150-acre botanical playground is a great way to soak in the sunshine and admire seasonal flowers like tulips, camellias, lilacs, roses and azaleas.

Springtime also welcomes festival season, with many LA locals and visitors in town ahead of music festivals  Coachella and Stage Coach . While the extravaganzas take place in the Californian desert near Palm Springs, LA acts as a home base for out-of-towners. 

But it's not all sunshine, with May Gray and June Gloom something to be aware of. The phenomena refer to the overcast and sometimes gray foggy conditions seen some mornings. These conditions shouldn't deter visitors, though because they make outdoor activities like hiking more comfortable (just be sure to wear layers). The good news is, the sky typically clears throughout the day, and the sun breaks through by afternoon. 

September to November is the best time for budget travelers 

If you're on a budget , September to November is an off-peak season, making it a great time to visit LA. Most kids are back at school, the summer rush has subsided, and the weather continues to radiate heat – in a more comfortable manner.

Fall comes complete with packed event schedules like the Emmy Awards, DTLA Film Festival, and for car lovers, the LA Auto Show. Amid all the offerings is Scary Season, with Universal Studios putting on its annual must-visit Halloween Horror Nights. 

But if you're hoping to witness autumn foliage and trees changing colors, like in the movies, be warned LA is not the place. Unlike other big cities such as  New York and Chicago , Southern California lacks significant seasonal changes.

It's also important that budget vacationers choose their travel dates wisely. While fall prices are generally ideal, booking too early may still see you faced with summer peak-season prices. Booking belatedly, eg late November, may have you slapped with even higher prices ahead of the holiday season. Thanksgiving (the last Thursday of November) is known for being one of the most expensive times to travel.

June to August is the high season and the best time for beach lovers

The sun is shining, and the waves are calling. For travelers looking to experience that SoCal beach life, summer is the best time to visit. Iconic beach towns like Santa Monica, Venice , Malibu  and Manhattan Beach  house over 100 beaches and host over 50 million visitors annually. If you are headed to one of the many gorgeous seasides, bring plenty of sunscreen, water and a beach umbrella, as temperatures average around 85°F and UV index ratings frequently rank extreme. 

From the ever-colorful and glorious LA Pride in June to Independence Day on July 4, summer in LA is when the city comes alive. Outdoor cinemas and summer concerts are also in full swing as locals and tourists soak in the longer days and warmer nights. The Hollywood Bowl is a great place to experience an LA summer night, with shows most evenings. The historic amphitheater in the heart of the Hollywood Hills was named one of the 10 best live music venues in America by Rolling Stone magazine and has hosted big names, including Judy Garland, Elton John, The Beatles, Adele and Lana Del Rey. 

Bear in mind, though, that with endless events and activities, school holidays and warm weather in full force, LA crowds, longer lines and high prices peak in summer.

December to February are the best times for culture enthusiasts

The months of December to February are ideal for indoor attractions like museums , galleries and theaters sans crowds. With the holiday season also in tow, light displays in neighborhoods and streets like Candy Cane Lane in Woodland Hills and The Grove  are attractions in themselves. Come New Year's Day, Pasadena puts on its annual Rose Parade, which features approximately 45 incredible rose-covered floats.

For those looking for a snow-filled winter wonderland, LA is not the place. Temperatures stay pretty consistent, with some days still reaching above 72°F. And while it's not common to see much rainfall in LA, it does happen, and when it does, it's typically during January and February. Being a rare occurrence, some restaurants, bars and attractions do close until the sun returns. Prices also rise from mid-December to early January for the holiday season.

Take the next step in planning your trip to Los Angeles:

Know these 10 things before you visit These tips will help you plan your budget Traffic is tricky. Plan how to get around Discover the best neighborhood to fit your vibe

This article was first published February 2021 and updated February 2024

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A Los Angeles Itinerary Guide for First Timers: How to Spend 3-4 Days in La La Land

Planning a Los Angeles itinerary for the first time and feeling overwhelmed? Follow this guide below to make it easy!

You know, growing up on the East Coast, LA almost doesn’t feel real . You see it in so many movies and read about it so often with celebrities and actors and singers, but still. It’s some far off place where it’s always sunny and both glamorous and a little seedy! Weird to think, but I visited the big cities of Europe before I even thought of making my way over to the City of Angels!

My first trip happened for two reasons. Since I was teaching in Korea and coming home for summer vacation, I knew I’d be flying through California no matter what. And it just so happens my friend, Elissa, had the same summer vacation and is from Los Angeles! I joined her family on a little California trip that ended up back at their house and managed to get a local introduction to this famous city!

Since then I’ve been back twice. Once on my way home from Korea again where I crashed with Elissa’s family for a few days before getting my next flight to Philly. We did a few things, but mostly I was exhausted and we vegged on her couch watching the BBC miniseries “North & South”!

Recently, though, I returned with my friend, Sher, at the tail end of our California coast road trip! We had about two nights and three-ish days, and I had a list of spots I wanted to see! It was also Sher’s first time in LA, so I re-visited some spots and got to re-remember what I saw the first time.

Between all these visits, I’ve put together what I think is the perfect Los Angeles itinerary for any first time visitor. Before I get in exactly what to do and where to go, I’ve listed some tips below so you know what you’re getting into. LA is not like other cities, so there are some things you should be aware of beforehand!

Tips for Your Los Angeles Itinerary

You’re going to need to drive.

The one thing you have to know about LA, is that it is not a walkable city. Everything is very spread out and the public transportation is okay in the best of times and downright sketchy and unsafe during pandemic times. Even then, it doesn’t cover everything and you’ll still wind up taking an expensive Uber to cover the awkward distance in between.

Elissa obviously drove when I visited her, but when I did my road trip, Sher and I rented a car via RentalCars.com which landed us with Thrifty. I was hesitant to drive in LA but it actually was pretty okay as long as you’re used to driving in cities and on freeways.

Traffic is a guarantee

The downside to LA? The traffic. I mean I’m sure you’ve heard a late night show comedian joke about it, but it’s truly a guarantee. I would say we actually got pretty lucky on this recent trip and traffic was never horrible , but I remember it being pretty bad when I visited Elissa before!

Your best bet is to allot an hour to get anyway just in case, more if you find yourself driving during rush hour.

Where you stay is key

Because of the driving factor, where you stay is key. LA is massive and often expands beyond the city limits. I’ve stayed with Elissa’s family in Glendora and then in Downtown LA, which I honestly hated. I feel like unless you know you’re going out or going to the STAPLES Center, there are a million other nicer neighborhoods to stay in!

For this itinerary, I think the best spot is to stay in Beverly Hills as it’s the most central to all the places you’re going to want to go and the worst you can say about it is that it’s expensive. I’ve only been to The Grove, but it seems nicer than DTLA and is still fairly central.

For this itinerary, if you spend an extra day and want to do Venice Beach, it’s much nicer to just go over the evening before and stay the night! This way you don’t have to worry about packing up in the morning and driving over with traffic and instead can have the whole morning and early afternoon to enjoy the area. Plus parking is kind of frustrating, so it’ll be easier to leave your car at your hotel and bike from there.

It’s almost always hot and sunny (and often smoggy)

Listen, if you go to LA in November and the weather map tells you it’s going to be 50-60F, it’s lying. Chances are it’ll be 90F and if you only bring clothes appropriate for weather 30 degrees cooler, you will sweat your butt off. Take it from me!

Also keep in mind LA smog is a real thing, and probably added to my feelings of exhaustion by the end of our road trip. Shocker – a city where everyone drives and traffic is a guarantee is also home to some of the worst air quality in the country!

What to wear

LA is a very casual city. Unless you’re going to a fancy bar at night, it’s really all about easy, breezy outfits. Elissa joked that if you really want to blend in just wear athleisure everywhere. Each time I’ve been, I’ve always worn casual outfits and never once felt underdressed or overdressed. Keep in mind, LA is a tourist hotspot, so you’ll see everyone in all types of outfits no matter where you go!

How to Spend 3-4 Days in Los Angeles

And now for my LA itinerary guide!

Day 1: Arrival to LA

Hike to Griffith’s Observatory

I’m going to assume you’re not arriving to LA early in the morning but more towards the middle of the day! If this is the case, the first thing you do once you settle-in is to change into some hiking clothes and head over to Griffith’s Observatory for a little hike to stretch your legs. The observatory is on the south side of Mount Hollywood and is pretty iconic. You probably recognize it best from La La Land or, more recently, Adele’s comeback special.

The observatory itself was named after its benefactor, Griffith J. Griffith. While you can go inside, really the coolest part is wandering around outside and taking in the insane views over the LA skyline.

I wish we’d realized that you can still access Griffith Park and wander around the observatory even if it’s closed. The opening times are pretty narrow (Friday – Sunday) and of course the crowds are too much. In fact, I didn’t even get out of my car when we went! Sher just hopped out and ran around, and I circled until she was done. That’s how frustrating the parking was!

If you hike, though, it’s much easier. There are a few various trails (just check AllTrails) or you can book a guide with this hiking tour . You’ll have someone to lead you and tell you more about LA’s history.

Grab either Mexican or Korean for dinner

Once you’re done with Griffith’s Observatory, head back to your hotel get cleaned up and then head into the city for dinner! You could stick around Beverly Hills or La Brea or head more into the city around Koreatown. There are at least two types of cuisines you’ll want to try in LA – Korean and Mexican (I might just be biased). Either head to El Cholo for tacos or Ahgassi Gopchang for Korean BBQ. I haven’t tried either personally, but when I asked Elissa for some restaurant recommendations, she listed both of these spot.

Day 2: Major Sightseeing

See Hollywood Boulevard for yourself

One of the must-see spots on a first visit to LA? Hollywood Boulevard , aka the street with all the stars. I’m going to be honest – it’s not that great. Think of Times Square in NYC . You get there and it’s kind of cool for about a minute and then you’re like, “Ok what else?” Not to mention because it’s such a tourist hot spot, there are tons of tour operators vying for your attention and homeless people asking for spare change. It’s also frankly kind of dirty.

However , beneath this grimy exterior is a street teeming with Tinseltown history. Practically every building has multiple stories going back to the Golden Age of Hollywood, and it’s pretty fun to imagine what kind of craziness this street has seen.

With that said, go with a tour guide . I cannot recommend this enough. Go with someone who can regale you with stories about what went on in this building or how all the old time celebrities, decked out in their Oscars gowns, had dinner at this restaurant before the show. When I worked on my post about Hollywood Boulevard , I found myself wishing I wasn’t finding out all this information after the fact!

Here are some tours worth looking at:

• Hop-on hop off bus
• Hollywood Boulevard bus tour
• Tour Hollywood with an LA filmmaker

Parking: If you’re like us and drove over to Hollywood Boulevard, don’t worry. There are plenty of parking garages. Park at one by the Pantages Theatre as that’s a good starting point!

Get a cool view of the famous sign at Hollywood Lake Park

If you do a Griffith’s Hike on the first day, you’re probably going to encounter the famous Hollywood sign. But if not, or if you want to visit when you’re not sweat from a hike, then drive on over to Hollywood Lake Park! It’s not too long of a drive, and it gives you a few really cool views of the sign.

Just a warning – the street leading up gets very narrow and winding. When you park on the side of the road, don’t forget your emergency break! I’d say the best view is in the little grassy park area (so skip past the dirt area a lot of people will be taking photos from).

Get lunch at Guisados

Once you’ve gotten your pics at the Hollywood sign, find a Guisados on the way back to your hotel. We stayed in downtown LA, so the one we stopped at was on Sunset Boulevard. It’s nice but pretty small and had very limited parking with one of those lots that’s hard to pull out of if you can’t park anywhere. If you stay in Beverly Hills, there’s one on Santa Monica Boulevard and one on S Linden Drive.

Not a taco fan? There’s also a Din Tai Fung on Santa Monica Boulevard where you can get the most delicious xiao long bao!

Once you’ve eaten, relax and freshen back up at your hotel and leave your car with valet for the night!

Spend the evening in Downtown LA

Downtown LA is honestly one of my least favorite areas for now. There’s kind of a weird vibe going on as this part of town is gentrifying rapidly while not properly helping the equally rapidly growing homeless population. I don’t know. I feel like I ought to give it another chance someday but much more rested and wearing more weather-appropriate clothes.

Like Hollywood Boulevard there’s a lot of history and really cool architecture in this part of town that goes beyond Tinseltown history. So while I don’t recommend staying here, I do think spending at least an afternoon or evening is worth it.

Just take an Uber in so you don’t have to worry about parking and maybe do a tour so you have someone who can provide more cultural and historic insight!

Some tours that looked interesting:

• Old and New DTLA Walking Tour
• DTLA Architecture Walking Tour
• Private DTLA Architecture Tour
• DTLA Food Tour
• Private DTLA Foodie Tour

When we went, we hit three main areas in the evening:

Bradbury Building

When getting your Lyft or Uber, have them drop you off at this building from 1893. Its name comes from the gold-mining millionaire Lewis L. Bradbury and is still used for various offices and buildings. The real architectural gem is in the inside, and in normal times you can go in on the first floor to see the gorgeous cast-iron filigree balustrades that line the stairs and halls of all five floors. Unfortunately, things are still closed to tourists for now, so we only managed a peak through the window!

Grand Central Market

This is where you’ll get dinner! Right across the street from the Bradbury Building is Grand Central Market , which has been a mainstay in DTLA since 1917. Situated in a Beaux-Arts building, it’s full of various food vendors of just about any cuisine you could imagine. We pretty much beelined for Sticky Rice, a Thai comfort food stand, and then I tried the vegan ramen spot, Ramen Hood. Elissa also let me know The Donut Man opened up a stall there as well, but by the time I finished my ramen, I was too full for anything else.

I will note that when I posted about Grand Central Market on my stories, a friend replied disappointedly that she can’t believe how quickly the market has gentrified and how it used to be a mecca of Hispanic and Asian hole-in-the-wall vendors as little has half a decade ago but changed the minute Eggslut was added. There’s a really interesting article from LA Mag if you want to dive in more.

The Last Bookstore

I wish I had words to explain how obsessed I am with this bookstore. I mean, I’m a pretty big sucker for bookstores in general, but this has to be one of the coolest. This was the last thing we did on our last full day in California, and it felt like I’d been revived when I exited with my newly purchased book, Sweet Bean Paste by Durian Sukegawa.

The Last Bookstore has been around since 2005 when it was initially founded by Jos Spencer in a DTLA loft. Today it’s two floors and sells over 250k books both used and new. There’s literally a whole wall of cheap used books that if you’d given me the whole afternoon, I’d probably have sat there and looked at every single one. Seriously do not skip!

Day 3: Beverly Hills

Morning – Getty Villa

After grabbing breakfast, drive over to the gorgeous Getty Villa on the Malibu coast! Hands down this is one of my favorite places in Los Angeles and I’ve been twice over my visits. (It helps that it’s also Elissa’s favorite place in LA, so she’s always down to go).

Not to be confused with the Getty Museum, the Getty Villa was designed after the museum ran out of room with his art collection. Its design is mainly based off the Villa dei Papyri in Italy and is absolutely stunning. Enjoy the various art collections as well as the gardens.

Just be sure to reserve your spot in advance . Even before these times, they limited the number of people so everyone can enjoy the grounds in peace. Tickets are free but parking is $20.

After the Getty Villa, head over to The Grove. Technically it’s just a shopping complex, but it’s really pretty and partially outdoors. I remember going on my first trip with Elissa and her sister, and it was just nice to stroll and do some window shopping. (Also why you guys are getting a circa 2015 style TSGA photo lol).

Plus this is a great spot to get lunch as it’s home to the historic Farmers Market, which has been around since 1880. On your way out grab some cupcakes from Sprinkles!

Parking: There are a few different parking options, but you’ll most likely want the self-parking option. The Grove has a parking structure off Fairfax Avenue that is $2 for the first hour all the way up to $30 for a daily maximum. Double check with restaurants or stores to see if they have complimentary parking. Also if you spend over $250, go to Caruso Concierge and you can get free parking as well.

LACMA & the La Brea Tar Pits

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) is still one of those art museums still on my list! It’s just always slightly out of the way for my LA trips, so cross fingers next time I finally make it there and the famous La Brea Tar Pits.

LACMA itself is probably most recognizable from the Urban Lights exhibit at the Wilshire Boulevard entrance. This exhibit, which is an Instagrammer fav, comprises of 202 restored street lamps from the 20s and 30s. This exhibit is free but the museum itself requires tickets purchased in advance.

As for the La Brea Tar Pits, they just look so random and cool! There have been over a hundred excavation done at these asphalt pits, and these fossils, which range from mammoths to sloths and more, are all on display in the museum.

Parking: Parking for LACMA is at the Pritzker Parking Garage on 6th St. and is $18 or $10 after 8PM while parking for La Brea Tar Pits is between Curson Ave and 6th Street. There’s also metered street parking around, but watch the time limits! The two spots are literally a 6-minute walk from each other, so I’m assuming you can parking in one and walk back after you’ve done both sites. (If you go, let me know if they have time limits on parking!)

Drive over to Venice Beach

Once you’ve finished with LACMA and the main part of LA, head over to your Venice Beach hotel for your final night and day! I’m putting my main things to do in Venice Beach below, but feel free to adjust depending on how much time you have in the afternoon and evening on Day 3 and when you fly out on Day 4. Our flights were around 2/3 PM, so we were able to have most of the morning in Venice Beach.

Day 4: Venice Beach

This time about a 120 years ago, Venice Beach was founded as an independent resort town! It’s only about a 20-minute drive from the main areas of LA and a nice way to end your Los Angeles itinerary. The name is obviously inspired by the Italy’s Venice and the founder, Abbot Kinney, even had canals built. Though this was also for practical reasons as the land for Venice Beach was very marshy.

I recommend staying here your final night to have a little more quiet than what LA will offer on its own and to enjoy the area! There are a few ways to do it from walking to surfing and more, but here are some tips from my very brief morning there.

Tours for Venice Beach

• Ultimate Venice Beach experience
• Venice Beach Surf Lessons
• Santa Monica & Venice Beach Ebike Tour
• Venice Beach Private Walking Tour

Brunch at Great White

One of the fun breakfast spots in Venice Beach is Great White . It’s very popular, so I’d make sure to make a reservation, especially if you’re here on a weekend morning. Everywhere has a sizable wait time for weekend brunch times! Great White has a really delicious menu and focuses on seasonal, organic produce from California. Highly recommend the breakfast burrito as well as the salmon mezze board and the shaken iced latte!

Bike around the canals

We didn’t have enough time, so all I did was catch a quick glimpse of the Venice Canals . But if you have more time, I’ do some sort of boardwalk and canals tour !

Shop and eat along Abbot Kinney Boulevard

Afterwards I’d stop in at the different restaurants, cafes, and shop along the palm-tree-lined Abbot Kinney Boulevard named, of course, after Venice Beach’s founder. In normal times, there’s a fun food truck event every first Friday of the month! Keep an eye here for its return.

And there you go! All my best tips for planning a solid Los Angeles itinerary for first time visitors. It hits all the “must-sees” as well as some more underrated gems and, most importantly, hits all the best spots for food. Let me know if you have any questions or even more recommendations below!

For more California travel, read these posts next:

• How to Plan the Perfect Santa Barbara Weekend Escape
• 27 Unique Things to Do in Santa Barbara
• 18 Fun Things to Do in Truckee in the Summer
• Going to San Francisco for the First Time?

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Just wondering….when was this blog written?? I got burned last year following a blog recommendation to go to St John, New Brunswick but it was written before COVID and nothing like the blog when we went!! TIA….

Hi! I went in November 2021, so I probably wrote it end of 2021 or beginning of 2022; well after COVID kicked off.

Wonderful Blog !! It was so interesting to read as it had a lot of information about this amazing city. Would love to visit LA soon.

Thank you! It’s definitely a very cool city!

Your attention to details is one of the reasons why you are one of my favorite bloggers. Thank you so much for this awesome first time guide to LA. I’ve been several times but I need a dedicated weeklong trip to cover the ground I need to. The weather looked absolutely beautiful!

Awww thank you Millette!!!

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What to Do This Summer: Los Angeles

An indoor masking order hasn’t stopped visitors from enjoying Culver City, Downtown and Venice. Here are suggestions for food, culture and sights, with an outdoors emphasis.

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By Finn-Olaf Jones

In a city adept at producing catastrophe films for entertainment, few scenes were as dystopian as the reality of Los Angeles during lockdown. A little over a year ago, one could zigzag on a bike from sea to downtown on the city’s grand avenues emptied of cars and pedestrians. Even the beaches themselves were voids patrolled by police cars with masked officers.

What a difference a year makes. Los Angeles has awakened from its pandemic slumber with an aggressiveness that begs to make up for lost time. With 62 percent of its residents over 16 years old fully vaccinated, Los Angeles County is above the national average, but a Covid spike, including cases caused by the Delta variant, has resulted in the hospitalization of hundreds of unvaccinated patients. Los Angeles County recently issued an indoors masking order.

Not everyone, including the Los Angeles Police Department, is enforcing this order, but assume that bringing a mask along for all indoor excursions, including public transportation, is a must. Also, note that a lot of businesses, especially restaurants, have social distancing rules.

The party hasn’t stopped — masked or not, Angelenos are out en masse. The once-empty boulevards are now packed with summer traffic, new businesses and public celebrations. Organizers are even restarting the popular CicLAvia Sundays — the first one is Aug. 15 — where city streets are shut down so bikes and pedestrians can take over with food stands, live music and other performances along the route.

The beach-to-city corridor of Venice, Culver City and Downtown is a promising area for experiencing a revitalized Los Angeles. The Expo Line, the light railroad that opened in 2012 (the light blue line on the Metro map), goes through most of these neighborhoods and is a great way to bypass the traffic. Here are some suggestions for enjoying your visit, with an emphasis on the outdoors.

Venice and Marina del Rey

Until recently, generations of diners on the Venice boardwalk have had to settle for burgers, pizza and beach joints. The upside to this informal atmosphere is that most restaurants have ample outside dining, pandemic or not. But culinary sophistication has arrived with the overhaul of one of the most iconic of these restaurants, the Fig Tree , by the siblings Matias and Sophia Moreno-Bunge and the chef Dashiell Nathanson, formerly of Los Angeles’s excellent small plate wine bar AOC .

Inspired by several favorite South American restaurants, the globe-trotting trio stripped down the place to its minimalist core, planted a jungle of flowers, and put together a menu with strong Mediterranean and Latin roots. The offerings are fresh, locally sourced and, unique to the boardwalk, elegant. Diplomacy comes easy when sharing plates of tangy beet salad or squid ink pappardelle, but for desserts such as crispy churros in chocolate sauce: War! Meanwhile, the tables on the patio offer front seats to the theater of humanity that walks, rolls and dances along the boardwalk. Dinner for two with drinks is around $115. On weekend nights seek out the music for the inevitable salsa and samba sessions in surrounding parking lots or massive drum circles on the beach.

For a more relaxed coastal scene, head to Mother’s Beach , a broad swath of sand on the protected waters of Marina del Rey. The marina is bordered by modern condos, parks and cafes — notably the Beachside Restaurant and Bar , which just expanded its outdoor dockside perch for feasting on grilled branzino or octopus with peanut salsa and other fresh seafood. Brunch for two is around $70. Newly lifted beach restrictions mean you can now rent paddle boards and kayaks and drift into the marina’s Zen-like calm and even do sun salutations (paddle board yoga either alone or in guided groups is the norm here), along with the seals and barking sea lions making themselves at home on the docked boats.

For four decades West Los Angeles’ health food cognoscenti flocked to what was once a tiny natural goods market. Now covering a block selling some 50,000 items, many of them the store’s own products, Rainbow Acres Natural Foods became during the pandemic a sanctuary for those seeking supplements and healthy meals. The store offers contact-free shopping and home delivery, but it’s more fun to dig into the daily menu offerings like free-range chicken in soy sauce, organic sunflower oil, garlic and rosemary, or tofu cabbage stir fry with ginger, combined with a seemingly limitless array of cold-pressed juices and smoothies. The market’s outside dining tables are on a busy street, so do what locals do and picnic on nearby Marina del Rey or Venice Beach.

Culver City

Over the last two decades this once-sleepy inland residential community surrounding the anonymous white walls of the enormous Sony Pictures Studios lot has been reconstructed into one of California’s most vibrant, bohemian and creative neighborhoods.

Just a block south of the Culver City Metro station, Platform is an intimate mall featuring cafes and shops centered around a leafy courtyard. Left for dead during the pandemic, Platform is having a renaissance with Los Angeles’s chic denizens flocking to boutiques like Janessa Leoné’s hat and handbag shop (she’s the one who made the signature hat on Taylor Swift’s “Red” album cover) or to munch mesquite-grilled tacos in the Brutalist setting of Loqui .

The pop-up shop Stan Surf Couturier might be Platform’s most dramatic new arrival. Founded by the rising young designer Tristan Detwiler, Stan’s “after-surf wear” (Los Angeles-speak for loosefitting), pieced together from vintage textiles, is starting to crowd the pages of Vogue and other fashion magazines. Mr. Detwiler himself is usually at the counter, sewing together colorful swatches, and ready to give equally colorful histories of every item in the store — from a wool jacket fashioned from a 19th-century Amish blanket to pants made out of a 1980s “French Fryzz” potato sack. His pop-up is currently leased until Aug. 31.

Five blocks east, foodies waiting for the reopening of Jordan Kahn’s double Michelin-starred restaurant, Vespertine , are sating their appetites across the street at Destroyer , Mr. Kahn’s lunch and breakfast cafe. Consisting of a dozen tables and stools arranged on the sidewalk outside a gleamingly white, refurbished, midcentury industrial building, Destroyer offers a simple and inexpensive way to sample Mr. Kahn’s mastery of contrasting favors and seasonal foraging. Unlike Vespertine, which required a lot of advance planning for reservations, one can often just walk in to savor revolutionary dishes like caramel-glazed beef brisket in lettuce wrap, or beef tartar submerged in toasted grains and smoked egg cream washed down with a turmeric ginger latte or a melon kumquat tonic. Brunch is around $35 per person.

The Wende Museum , one of the first museums to reopen in Los Angeles, is another revolutionary spot. The brainchild of the historian, Justinian Jampol, the Wende is a “Citizen Kane”-worthy collection of Soviet Bloc art and design spread out in an elegantly redone concrete armory. In this setting, stripped of their political menace, Eastern European propaganda, household goods and furniture seem futuristic and cool, as if you’ve suddenly found yourself in the lair of a James Bond villain. Even the clench-fisted bust of the German Communist leader Ernst Thälmann seems oddly cheery framed by the museum garden’s palm trees and bubbling fountains. The best souvenir from the Wende’s exotic gift-shop: a stylized 903-page catalog of the Wende’s East German collection, personally produced by the king of art book publishing, Benedikt Taschen, one of the museum’s founders ($90). Entry is free, but online reservations are required. Currently, only 20 reservations per hour are allowed, so there’s plenty of space to spread out.

Downtown Los Angeles

While indoor masking laws have dampened some of Downtown Los Angeles’s interior festivities, the high life has resumed on the neighborhood’s signature roof bars and restaurants. The fashionable and famous throng to the refurbished Upstairs bar at the Ace Hotel, and those who yearn for Mexico City’s ambience head to LA Cha Cha Chá , overlooking the Arts District.

Perhaps the most impressive sky bar, Spire 73 , hardly had a chance to make its mark before the pandemic forced it to close last year. It reopened on July 4, and its 73rd-floor perch atop the Wilshire Grand building makes it the highest open-air bar in the Western Hemisphere. Lines of fire pits warm up the views of Los Angeles’s light grid dissipating into the distant sea and mountains. The vistas are matched by excellent craft cocktails, including the house version of the old fashioned, made with small batch Elijah Craig bourbon consecrated by dashes of bitters and maple syrup, or a white negroni with lillet blanc standing in for the vermouth. Drink up (and maybe grab a burger), as there’s a $60 minimum per person.

For a smaller, more iconic lift, head to Angels Flight , the tiny tramway built in 1901 to take pedestrians up Bunker Hill in the middle of downtown. After three tumultuous decades of accidents and decay, the tram is fully refurbished and finally running again (masks required). The tram’s two funicular cars, named Olivet and Sinai, take turns going up and down the steep, 298-foot rail. If the tramway looks familiar, it’s because it’s appeared in dozens of movies, including “Kiss Me Deadly” and “La La Land.”

Angels Flight is an especially glamorous ride at night, when downtown’s Art Deco and Beaux-Arts buildings disappear below and you emerge to the hilltop’s modern cityscape, crowned by Frank Gehry’s Disney Hall and the recently reopened Broad Museum . One only pays the dollar fare at the kiosk at the top of the tram, making this one of the best bargains for experiencing a rising Los Angeles.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram , Twitter and Facebook . And sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to receive expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places list for 2021 .

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With a reputation for its sunny weather and glamorous vibe, Los Angeles is an ideal getaway destination. Book one of our Los Angeles vacation packages and immerse yourself in all that this impressive city has to offer. Fill your itinerary with visits to University of Southern California , Hollywood Walk of Fame and Dolby Theater , some of the things you really should see during a trip to Los Angeles. A few clicks is all it takes to craft a tailor-made Los Angeles vacation on Expedia.

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Discover the heart of the U.S. film industry with nearby studios, stroll along the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, and visit landmarks like the Dolby Theatre and Hollywood sign. Shop at the Hollywood & Highland Center mall and easily navigate via the Metro Rail B Line.

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DTLA's offers a wide variety of shopping options in its many neighborhoods, such as FIGat7th in the Financial District and Japanese Village Plaza in Little Tokyo. Explore sights like Olvera Street and Grand Park, while easily accessing urban rail transit.

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Nestled within the Santa Monica Mountains, this residential area boasts iconic attractions like the Hollywood Sign, Hollywood Bowl, and John Anson Ford Theater. Easily accessible via US 101, it's also home to the American Film Institute.

Home to UCLA, this neighborhood offers shopping, dining, and entertainment in Westwood Village. Explore cultural gems like the Hammer Museum and Geffen Playhouse Theater, or visit "Little Persia" on Westwood Boulevard.

Vibrant nightlife abounds in this commercially driven area, featuring Korean BBQ restaurants, karaoke bars, and a high concentration of nightclubs. Explore the Korean American National Museum, Korean Cultural Center, and enjoy convenient transport via B and D Line subways.

Los Angeles Beach Vacation

Unwind on the shoreline and watch the sunlight shimmering on the water on your Los Angeles vacation. If you're yearning for the perfect beach experience, a trip to Los Angeles always delivers. You've probably heard about Venice Beach (12 miles (20 km) away). We recommend organizing your accommodations nearby. However, a lot of sightseers also choose Los Angeles vacation packages closer to Santa Monica Beach or Zuma Beach, two other great nearby options.

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• Nothing screams vacation more than staying right near the shoreline. If you happen to agree, check out what's available among our Los Angeles beach hotels .
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• Our Los Angeles things to do page is the ideal place to start planning your escape to Los Angeles. After you arrive, strike up a conversation with one of the 3,971,900 locals to learn even more.
• Save big bucks on amazing experiences with our Los Angeles vacation deals. See Universal Studios Hollywood™, as well as other major attractions, with the dollars left over in your pocket.

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The 20 best weekend getaways from los angeles.

Escape the LA hustle with a weekend retreat to nearby shores.

The Best Weekend Getaways From LA

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Explore national parks, beaches, wine country and more away from LA.

If you're tired of sitting in traffic on the 405 or need a break from your Zoom calls in the City of Angels, you're in luck: Los Angeles sits close to a wide variety of vacation spots that are perfect for a weekend away. The options can range from scenic mountain destinations to relaxing desertscapes to small coastal towns – or even to lively Las Vegas. To help you pick the right destination for your much-needed escape, U.S. News evaluated expert and traveler opinion to find the best weekend getaways from LA. Whatever you choose for your weekend trip, it's time to take a break from the bustle of Los Angeles and head out for a new adventure with your best friends , significant other or entire family .

See more of Los Angeles:  Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

Best Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles:

About one hour or less:, long beach, california, catalina island, california, newport beach, california, laguna beach, california, about two hours or less:, ojai, california, temecula, california, santa barbara, california, big bear lake, california, palm springs, california, about three hours or less:, la jolla, california, joshua tree national park, california, los alamos, california, about four hours or less:, san luis obispo, california, paso robles, california, about five hours or less:, death valley national park, california, about six hours or less:, mammoth lakes, california, carmel, california, a quick flight:, puerto vallarta, mexico, vancouver, british columbia.

Long Beach boasts many iconic attractions – the Queen Mary ship and the Aquarium of the Pacific , for example – and thus makes for a wonderful weekend getaway or daytrip. Fill your time in this California city (only about 25 miles south of Los Angeles) with shopping, dining, art and roaming the coastline: Junipero Beach is one of the top LA-area beaches . You can start your trip on Fourth Street, also called Retro Row, to explore offerings such as the famous vintage shop Meow. Visitors can also catch an indie film at the recently renovated Art Theatre before riding a bike through the streets of Long Beach and browsing its other cultural attractions.

Long Beach is one of the most ethnically diverse U.S. cities, with a variety of cultures represented in its food scene. Options span Cambodian fusion at A&J Seafood Shack to Peruvian staples at El Pollo Imperial to fine Italian dining at L'Opera downtown. For an overnight stay, you'll find popular chain hotels around downtown and Shoreline Village, such as Hotel Maya – a DoubleTree by Hilton or other Westin, Hilton and Hyatt lodging options.

See more of Long Beach:  Things to Do | Hotels

Rather than taking a road trip from Los Angeles, how about hopping on a boat? Catalina Island , located a little more than 20 miles from the Southern California shoreline, is accessible from the San Pedro neighborhood of LA or from Long Beach via a Catalina Express ferry. The island is full of adventure, romance, relaxation and sightseeing both on land and in the ocean. Once you arrive in Avalon, the main city, you can take a walking tour at the historic Catalina Casino, rent a golf cart to cruise around or experience the thrill of an ecotour by zip line. Vacationers may also enjoy hitting the beach at Descanso Beach Club or unwinding at the 15,000-square-foot Island Spa Catalina.

Seafood fans can enjoy fresh lobster at The Lobster Trap, among other popular dining options. For an unforgettable weekend stay, book a room at the sophisticated Mt Ada. This romantic bed-and-breakfast features a wraparound deck with expansive ocean views. Guests have access to their own golf cart, as well as complimentary breakfast, lunch and snacks. Just outside of Avalon, Hamilton Cove has private villas perched on a hillside overlooking the Catalina coastline – or, if you want to rough it in the outdoors, campsites are also available at the island's campgrounds.

Newport Beach sits in the heart of coastal Orange County , about 45 miles south of downtown Los Angeles. Getting out on Newport Harbor is a must in this nautical hot spot: Whether you go by yacht, electric boat, whale watching excursion , paddleboard or even on a floating tiki bar, an unforgettable experience awaits. You can dock at dozens of waterfront restaurants along the harbor specializing in seasonal and locally sourced cuisine. Two of the most popular Newport Beach communities to explore are Balboa Island – be sure to try the famed frozen banana dessert – and Balboa Peninsula, ideal for surfing or leisurely biking. Travelers in search of the best shoreline can check out Corona del Mar State Beach to experience firsthand why it's such a beloved spot.

For upscale shopping and dining, the trendy Lido Marina Village is the place to be seen. After enjoying lunch at Malibu Farm Lido or picking up some couture pieces at the elysewalker store, plan for a sleepover at the Lido House to soak in the hotel's Cape Cod -inspired aesthetic. If you have a posh pet with you on your weekend getaway, you can splurge for the Pampered Pooch Package at Balboa Bay Resort , where fur babies and "paw-rents" alike can enjoy a luxurious stay.

See more of Newport Beach:  Things to Do | Hotels

About 50 miles south of Los Angeles you'll find picturesque Laguna Beach, also known as the California Riviera. This chic coastal town in Orange County comes complete with high-end boutiques, five-star accommodations, gourmet restaurants and art galleries galore. If you plan your weekend trip for the summer, you may be able to catch one of the world-famous art festivals hosted by Laguna Beach, such as the Sawdust Art Festival – but art lovers can also take a self-guided walking tour that showcases the city's public art any time of year. Travelers seeking outdoor adventure will have plenty of opportunities, whether you opt to scuba dive in a kelp forest, peruse tide pools in Heisler Park , or head to 7,000-acre Laguna Coast Wilderness Park for hiking and mountain biking.

Laguna Beach has an abundance of upscale dining options, especially if you're looking for waterfront views or a unique atmosphere. Enjoy sushi seaside at Hotel Laguna's Fin restaurant, listen to live jazz at The Drake or sip Champagne while watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean at the Surf & Sand Resort bar. For a luxury weekend stay, the Montage Laguna Beach resort features seaside balconies and an elegant indoor/outdoor spa. If you're craving a cozy canyon environment, The Ranch at Laguna Beach is tucked into green hillsides and boasts an array of amenities, such as a golf course.

See more of Laguna Beach:  Things to Do | Hotels

If your weekend trips typically include racing around to see all the top tourist attractions, maybe you'll enjoy a change of pace in beautiful Ojai, where visitors can slow down and embrace nature. This small town, tucked into the valley of the Topatopa Mountains about 80 miles northwest of Los Angeles, is an outdoor paradise and a wellness retreat destination. Hike for miles and miles in the Los Padres National Forest (check to see if you need an Adventure Pass), kayak on Lake Casitas, embark on a rock climbing adventure or go horseback riding along the Ventura River valley.

Travelers interested in spiritual and holistic-focused establishments will find plenty in Ojai, such as The Crystal Corner, Center for Spiritual Living Ojai and Meditation Mount. Go for a deep detox with a treatment called Kuyam, which is inspired by the Chumash Native American people, at Ojai Valley Inn 's five-star Spa Ojai. Ojai Valley Inn has plenty more to offer overnight guests, with world-class dining and activities ranging from beekeeping to soap making.

You don't have to go all the way to Napa Valley for award-winning wineries . About 85 miles southeast from the City of Angels, the wineries of Temecula Valley produce more than 50 varietals of wine; this year-round vacation destination pours plenty of craft beers and spirits too. Temecula is also home to a charming Old Town, farm-to-table cuisine, relaxing spas, the massive Pechanga Resort Casino, hot air ballooning and more. The ever-evolving culinary scene, small-town atmosphere, and outdoor recreation and entertainment in Temecula Valley culminate in a spirited destination inspired by the vine. Leave the kids at home for a romantic getaway with your partner in SoCal wine country.

The charming Ponte Vineyard Inn is located in the heart of Temecula Valley, surrounded by nearly 300 acres of mature vineyards and views of rolling hills. During your weekend trip, visit the inn's on-site wine tasting rooms or hop in a motorcycle sidecar for a tour of other nearby wineries, such as Altisima Winery, Fazeli Cellars or Akash Winery.

For serene coastal vibes and seaside views about 95 miles west of LA, Santa Barbara is a great escape in Southern California – especially for pet owners, since it's one of the top dog-friendly beach destinations in the U.S. With its balmy Mediterranean climate, cultural offerings, star-studded beaches and flourishing culinary scene, it's no wonder Santa Barbara draws millions of vacationers each year. Oenophiles will have the opportunity to explore more than 30 local wineries along the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail – some, like Pali Wine Company, allow dogs. You can unleash your artistic side as you listen to live music or experience the city's colorful wall murals, galleries and museums. Take a sunset stroll along the beach , or head out on the water on a kayak or sailboat during your weekend getaway in Santa Barbara.

The high-end Hotel Californian is just steps from the Pacific Ocean and the vibrant Funk Zone – a bustling enclave of the city's best wine tasting rooms, breweries, boutique shops, art galleries, cafes and restaurants. The hotel boasts a rooftop pool and deck with 360-degree views alongside a Moroccan-inspired spa and myriad dining options, including a new wine tasting room that opened in March 2022. Santa Barbara has a compelling culinary scene overall, with plenty of farm-to-table options that focus on locally sourced ingredients – such as The Lark in the heart of the Funk Zone neighborhood.

See more of Santa Barbara:  Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

For a cold-weather getaway, Big Bear Lake – less than 100 miles east of LA – is a prime winter destination for skiers and snowboards, who flock to Big Bear Mountain Resort. In the warmer seasons, Big Bear Lake becomes a hub for boating, hiking and biking, so this small city in the San Bernardino National Forest makes an ideal trip year-round. You can get out on the lake in a rented pontoon boat, paddleboard, kayak and more – or, for an off-road adventure, the Big Bear Jeep Experience is a popular activity. Fuel up with a poke bowl from Tropicali, dine on Nepalese and Indian cuisine at the Himalayan Restaurant, or sip a craft brew at Big Bear Lake Brewing Company.

Although plenty of visitors opt for a daytrip to Big Bear, consider extending your getaway with a stay at the Viking-inspired Marina Riviera, which has the atmosphere of a vintage ski lodge and features fire pits, lake views and a heated pool. For budget-friendly accommodation, check out the Best Western Big Bear Chateau or the area's numerous cabin and cottage rentals on Airbnb. In the nearby community of Lake Arrowhead, guests of the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa have access to a private beach and personalized boat tours.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Big Bear Lake, California

If a desert escape is what you're craving, head to the Palm Springs area. Relaxation here may include lounging by the pool, cocktail in hand, at a stylish midcentury modern home or hotel. To explore more of what Palm Springs has to offer, visitors can hike through the desert and mountains, visit Cabot's Pueblo Museum , browse shops on Palm Canyon Drive , or take the scenic Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for an incomparable view atop Mount San Jacinto (where you'll see snow in winter). One buzz-worthy new attraction in this resort city is the Palm Springs Surf Club, which features a state-of-the-art wave pool.

With Palm Springs sitting a little more than 100 miles east of Los Angeles, A-listers flock to this desert destination for much-needed rest and relaxation. You can splurge on your overnight stay to vacation like a celebrity at the Jonathan Adler-designed Parker Palm Springs luxury hotel. Tried-and-true splendor can also be found at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage , which boasts stunning views overlooking Coachella Valley . If your fur baby is in tow on this weekend trip, the new local hangout Boozehounds is a hit with dogs and owners alike; it offers a pet-friendly menu just for your pooch.

See more of Palm Springs: Things to Do | Hotels | Restaurants

Escape for a weekend to the San Diego neighborhood of La Jolla – one of the top California beach destinations , set about a 110-mile drive south from Los Angeles. Grab a snorkel mask to swim with marine life in La Jolla Cove or hike sandstone cliffs at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve . In addition to experiencing the natural world, travelers can hit some balls at world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course or browse the boutiques in La Jolla Village.

When you're not kayaking through a sea cave, admiring adorable sea lions or zipping up the road to Mount Soledad on an e-bike, you can enjoy ocean views and Mediterranean food at La Valencia Hotel , also known as "the Pink Lady of La Jolla," or dine alfresco on California cuisine under century-old olive trees at Herringbone. If you seek a romantic retreat, enjoy the soaking tub in a couples bungalow at Estancia La Jolla Hotel & Spa . Whatever you do in La Jolla, don't miss the newcomers to town: The world's smallest species of penguins can now be found at the Birch Aquarium .

See more of San Diego: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

Experience the Zen of the desert and the majestic natural wonders that await in Joshua Tree National Park , about 130 miles east of Los Angeles (and not too far from Palm Springs). Explore the 800,000 acres of desert wilderness through hiking, biking, rock climbing , horseback riding, backpacking and photography. Before you head out, stop by the Joshua Tree Cultural Center in Twentynine Palms, California, to pick up maps, park information and safety tips; this museum space also has exhibits sharing Indigenous stories and more. As you traverse Joshua Tree, be sure to take in sights such as Skull Rock , Black Rock Canyon, Cottonwood Spring and Covington Flats.

With more than 500 campsites in the park – most of which are available by reservation – camping is one of the most accessible ways to experience an overnight stay. Or, upgrade to AutoCamp Joshua Tree, where guests sleep in stylish and modern Airstream trailers, for a glamping experience . If budget is not an issue, you may choose to rent one of the most exclusive homes in the world: the Kellogg Doolittle House.

Los Alamos, California – not to be confused with a New Mexico town of the same name – is a laid-back destination with an authentic Old West heritage; the town was created in 1876 by two ranchers donating part of their land. Only about 140 miles north of Los Angeles, Los Alamos is ideally located for a daytrip or weekend getaway – especially for couples and wine lovers – amid Santa Ynez Valley wine country. Travelers can take time to peruse the one-of-a-kind shops and boutiques that adorn Bell Street, such as the new Elder Flat Farm store.

A major highlight of Los Alamos is the proliferation of top-notch dining options. A great California destination for foodies, the town is home to the Santa Ynez Valley's only Michelin-starred restaurant: Bell's, a French-inspired bistro. The artisanal Bob's Well Bread Bakery and Pico Los Alamos, which serves upscale comfort food, are other popular local eateries. The primary lodging options in this town include the retro motel Skyview Los Alamos, the Western-themed Alamo Motel and the opulent Victorian Mansion B&B.

With 315 days of sunshine, San Luis Obispo (nicknamed SLO) is the perfect year-round weekend destination – and one of the best places to visit in California – with picturesque beaches, a burgeoning farm-to-table culinary scene, rolling vineyards and plenty of small-town charm. Kick off a long weekend with a stop at a pedestrian-friendly farmers market held on Thursday evenings along Higuera Street downtown. Other SLO activity options include shopping for one-of-a-kind items at the JunkGirls shop, taking a surfing lesson or catching a movie at the nostalgic Sunset Drive-In. There are plenty of galleries to sate art lovers, but a more unconventional tourist attraction invites visitors to help make graffiti out of chewed gum in Bubblegum Alley. For a bit of California history, wander through the historic Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa.

One thing you won't want to miss is the wine. Try some Malene rose in a 1969 Airstream mobile tasting room or visit the adjacent Chamisal Vineyards in Edna Valley to sip chardonnay and pinot noir with views of the vineyards. For an overnight stay, The Kinney San Luis Obispo, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, offers a casual college town atmosphere with board games and draft beers. A stylish boutique hotel option is the one-of-a-kind Madonna Inn: Each of the more than 100 guest rooms has a different theme, such as the Caveman, Love Nest, Pioneer America and Golfer's Room.

Head to central California's wine country for a visit to charming Paso Robles, a city about 200 miles northwest of LA that's located along coastal U.S. Route 101. Paso Robles is a community of cowboys, surfers and innovators; travelers can enjoy world-class food and wine as well as inspiring art and whole-body wellness here. You'll find more than 200 wineries in the region, complemented by a variety of craft breweries, cideries and distilleries in Paso Robles. Check out about a dozen craft distilleries on the Paso Robles Distillery Trail. A can't-miss nighttime activity is a self-guided stroll through the Sensorio lights display.

Thanks to the world-class wines and family farms, Paso Robles is a mecca for delicious dining – including The Restaurant at JUSTIN; the Michelin-starred Six Test Kitchen, located inside the Tin City makers market; and Paso Market Walk, a reinvented farmers market. From rustic hideaways to glamping sites, Paso Robles also has lodging options to fit any taste and budget. For luxury accommodations, consider the boutique Hotel Cheval, just off Paso Robles' historic town square. For a unique experience, opt for a farm stay – such as in an RV on an alpaca ranch – or spend a night sleeping in a revamped shipping container at Geneseo Inn.

If an adults-only weekend trip is what you have in mind, head out to Las Vegas, a vivacious and walkable city. Sitting about 270 miles north of Los Angeles, Las Vegas checks all the boxes for a memorable vacation. You can hit the slots at the casinos, catch in-residency concerts from big names such as Katy Perry, indulge in a phenomenal treatment at a world-class spa or enjoy a meal crafted by a celebrity chef. More unique things to do include a boozy Upside Down Tea Party at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas, Curio Collection by Hilton, or a spin around the SpeedVegas off-road track. If you're not afraid of heights, you can zip line over Fremont Street downtown or experience LIFTOFF at Area 15's immersive playground for panoramic city views.

Live it up like a high roller with a Sky Suite atop ARIA Resort & Casino , the Sake Suite at the Nobu Hotel inside Caesars Palace or ultra-exclusive The Mansion at MGM Grand. Enjoy a feast for the eyes and mouth with innovative eateries all over the city – Las Vegas' dining scene boasts a variety of culinary choices and the ability to cater to whatever your budget may be.

See more of Las Vegas: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

From Los Angeles, the closest paved entrance to Death Valley National Park is on California state Route 190; whichever route you take to get there, you'll likely want to budget around five hours for the drive, which is about 290 miles. Death Valley is the largest national park in the lower 48 states. Its 3.4 million acres include some of the most unique landscapes and sites you'll find anywhere – such as the Badwater Basin salt flats, the Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, Rainbow Canyon and Artists Palette's colorful hills. Download the free National Park Service app to take a driving tour of "Star Wars" filming locations in the park. Death Valley also boasts some of the best stargazing opportunities in the U.S., as an International Dark Sky Park considered "Gold Tier," meaning there is minimal interference from light pollution.

The Oasis at Death Valley – part of the Xanterra Travel Collection – encompasses the romantic Inn at Death Valley and the family-friendly Ranch at Death Valley. The Oasis completed a $150 million restoration in 2022 and now features a revitalized town square and new shops, including an ice cream parlor with an old-school soda fountain. If you're looking for a quirky desert experience, stay overnight in the Pyramid, a one-bedroom glass pyramid bookable on Airbnb, or pick from the seasonal campgrounds, inns and motels in the park.

Read: The Best National Parks in California

If the mountains are calling you, head to the Sierra Nevada for a weekend in the resort town of Mammoth Lakes. From LA, take U.S. Route 395 for a scenic road trip across approximately 310 miles. Winter ushers in world-class downhill skiing, snowboarding, tubing and cross-country skiing in the Mammoth Mountain Ski Area. During the warmer months, visitors can ride gondolas for panoramic views on Mammoth Mountain in addition to hiking and mountain biking there and at the Mammoth Lakes Basin. Other popular lake activities include fishing, paddleboarding and boating.

Located in Mammoth Lakes' The Village, the rustic yet elegant Westin Monache Resort, Mammoth , offers access to dining, shopping and the gondola up the mountain. Dine at the on-property restaurant, Whitebark, for tasty and healthy options. Travelers can also indulge at Gomez's Mexican Restaurant in The Village, visit Tamarack Lodge & Resort for a romantic dinner at the Lakefront Restaurant or stock up on gourmet snacks at Bleu Market & Kitchen.

The 1-square-mile, European-style village of Carmel seamlessly blends history, arts and culture, and stunning ocean views for a relaxing and unique travel experience. Just off of state Route 1 near Monterey , this charming seaside destination about 320 miles northwest of LA is ideal for dreamy weekend getaways any time of year – especially if you have a canine companion in tow. Carmel boasts world-class art galleries, whimsical architecture, nearly 20 wine tasting rooms, the dog-friendly Carmel Beach, a few dozen secret passageways and more restaurants per capita than any other small U.S. city. Enjoy Mediterranean, Italian or French cuisine at quaint local eateries like La Balena, Dametra Cafe, Yafa, La Bicyclette and many more.

Book a stay in one of the historic inns, such as the "Grande Dame of Carmel": La Playa Carmel , a historic hotel with a prime view of Carmel Beach, is perfect for evenings spent gazing out at the sunset or taking a moonlit walk in the sand. If you bring your fur baby with you on your weekend jaunt, Cypress Inn provides an array of amenities to welcome pets, such as its daily "yappy hour."

If you're willing to take to the skies, you can leave California – and the U.S. – altogether for a quick weekend trip to Mexico. Grab your besties or your significant other for a flight to Puerto Vallarta, a resort town on Mexico's Pacific coast, and after about three hours on a plane, you can be sipping margaritas with your toes in the sand. There's plenty to do in Puerto Vallarta: Sail to the Marieta Islands to discover a hidden beach, take a whale watching tour or stroll along the iconic El Malecón boardwalk for souvenirs, ocean views and street performances. Beyond the shoreline, travelers can visit the nearby village of Sayulita for artwork by Huichol Indigenous people or dance the night away in lively nightclubs.

For an all-inclusive stay, Casa Velas is a boutique, adults-only resort that offers laid-back luxury in an intimate setting. If you're traveling with your family, consider Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit , which features entertainment, dining and activities like kids and teens clubs. Try the Hydrotherapy Circuit at the five-star spa or feast on innovative global cuisine at the property's many restaurants.

See more of Puerto Vallarta: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

Vancouver sits perched on the west coast of Canada, surrounded by water and woods, and is only a three-hour flight from Los Angeles. The beauty of the environment lends itself to outdoor activities, such as boating, fishing, hiking, biking, skiing and more. And, even though the scenery is rustic, there is plenty of luxury in this coastal Canadian city – from top-notch hotels and restaurants to bountiful art and culture. Must-do activities in the area include a thrilling boat ride with Vancouver Water Adventures, a foodie tour at Granville Island Public Market and an outdoor adventure at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park , where you'll experience a 450-foot-long suspension bridge, the Cliffwalk and a treetops excursion. Vancouver is also full of parks and beaches for when you need some relaxation.

Stay at the JW Marriott Parq Vancouver for bountiful amenities and impeccable service; there's a spa, access to a casino and plenty of dining choices. For a city-chic boutique hotel, the DOUGLAS, Autograph Collection , brings the outdoors inside with creative design elements, such as an urban park on the rooftop.

See more of Vancouver: Things to Do | Tours | Hotels

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Tags: Travel , Weekend Getaways , California Vacations , US Vacations

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• Darren C 1 contribution 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great fun way to see the sights of LA Our private LA in One Day tour was an amazing way to see the sights of LA including Beverley Hills, Rodeo Drive, Santa Monica pier, our tour guide Ali’s favourite coffee shop in Venice Beach with a wander along muscle beach and the skate parks, Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory and views of the Hollywood sign and other sights. Ali was very informative and friendly pointing out lots of well known and historical places on the way. The car was incredibly comfortable (with great music) and the hassle of not dealing with traffic and parking over Easter was worth every dollar. I highly recommend this tour. Read more Review of: Full-Day Iconic Sights of LA, Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Beaches and More Written March 31, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

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15 Los Angeles-Area Road Trips and Getaways

Even though you'll never run out of things to do in Los Angeles, the city is perfectly situated for exploring all the riches of

Even though you'll never run out of things to do in Los Angeles, the city is beautifully situated to explore the riches of Southern California and—with L.A.'s driving culture—a road trip is just part of the experience.

Whether you live in Los Angeles and are looking for a quick escape or you are traveling there and want to explore a little more of California, here are some popular road trips that can be done as a day trip or as an overnight getaway from LA. Beach options along the coast are abundant, but within one to three hours of Los Angeles, you can retreat to the mountains or desert, explore wine country, experience California history or immerse yourself in mineral springs.

Most of these road trips and getaways presented in the next pages are worth spending a night or two if you have the time and money, but if you don't mind long days and lots of driving, you can do every one of them as a day trip. Depending on who you talk to, a visit to  Santa Monica ,  Pasadena ,  Long Beach  or  Disneyland  may be considered just another day out in LA, a day trip away from LA, or reason enough to get a room and stay overnight.

The distances we've listed are calculated from Hollywood, just to pick a central point. Given the size of LA, the distance could vary by 40 miles, depending on where you're actually starting. The travel times are off-peak driving times, which can be double or more in rush hour traffic. The trick to making most of the more distant locations as a day trip is to start before rush hour so that you're outside of LA before traffic gets jammed. The estimated times posted are for taking the quickest route, but sometimes it's worth taking the scenic route and enjoying the drive. It is a road trip, after all.

TripSavvy / Christian Hundley 

If you want to take a drive for the joy of driving, ​ Malibu  is a great place to start. The city stretches 27 scenic miles west of Pacific Palisades in LA along the south-facing coast at the edge of the Santa Monica Mountains to the Ventura County line. Most of the city is along both sides of Pacific Coast Highway, with access roads that cut through canyons or over mountains to reach State Route 101. The windy mountain roads lead to a number of surprises in the hills, from a stunt ranch and the Biggest Loser Resort to an elaborate Hindu temple.

The Malibu Hills are also home to a number of ranches where you can go horseback riding and vineyards where you can take a Malibu wine tasting tour. The wealthy folks in Malibu don't really appreciate tourists, so there are only a handful of places to stay in Malibu itself. At the high end, the Malibu Beach Inn puts you right in the sand with waves crashing under your balcony. Malibu does have one of the few places you can camp near the beach at the beautiful Leo Carrillo State Park. There is also camping at Malibu Creek State Park, closer to LA, which is technically in the city of Calabasas on the other side of the mountain.

There are 20 named  beaches in Malibu , each with a different personality. Most of them are good for surfing. Some, like Matador, require a hike down to the water, but you're rewarded with gorgeous scenery. Several are just a scramble down a few feet of sand next to Pacific Coast Highway. Others, like Zuma, are long stretches of nondescript sand with good surf breaks, parking, and amenities. 

Things to see along the way include  The Getty Villa , The Adamson House and Malibu Lagoon Museum, and  The Weisman Museum of Art  at Pepperdine University.

• 30 miles or 50 minutes from LA

Ojai  (pronounced Oh' high) is a small town nestled among oak trees and orange groves in an east-west inland valley in Ventura County, about an hour and a half north of Los Angeles. It's another popular destination for a spa retreat or romantic escape. There are multiple destinations with accommodations and day spas, a cute little Spanish-style downtown to explore, nearby trails to hike , and boating or bird watching at nearby Lake Casitas.

• 77 miles, 1 hour 26 minutes

Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara  is doable as a day trip from LA and it's not uncommon for people to drive up just for lunch or dinner, but it's more enjoyable as a weekend road trip. Santa Barbara is an upscale community with a uniform red-tiled Mission architecture as mandated by city ordinance. It's most popular as a romantic destination, with lots of places to stroll along the beach, or as a girlfriends' shopping getaway. Beyond the beach, there aren't a lot of family attractions.

The most popular things to do in Santa Barbara are going to the beach, explore State Street shops, and visit the Santa Barbara Mission, one of the oldest in California.

You'll pass the beach cities of Oxnard, Ventura, and Carpinteria on the way to Santa Barbara, which all have nice beaches and more economical accommodations, but they don't have the same charm as Santa Barbara. What that stretch of coast does have is the greatest concentration of places to go camping at the beach.

If you want to get even further away from it all, you can take a side trip to  Channel Islands National Park , a group of five islands off the coast of Ventura, accessible by boat or small plane from Santa Barbara. There are primitive campgrounds, but no concessions on the islands, so take enough water and food for your day trip or camping needs. Outfitted trips are available.

• 89.2 miles, 1 hour 32 minutes

Solvang Winery Getaway

Solvang is a little bit of Denmark plopped in the middle of the  Santa Ynez Valley  about 45 miles northeast of Santa Barbara. It would be just about a two-hour drive without traffic, but is often closer to two and a half hours or more from LA.

The city was founded in 1911, but it wasn't until 1946 that the community mandated that new construction adhere to the aesthetic of Scandinavian half-timbered architecture. Visiting the town now, it looks a lot like wandering the streets of a European village—with just as many touristy souvenir shops. To learn more about Danish culture and the Danish roots of the town, visit the  Elverhoj Museum . There's also a Hans Christian Anderson Museum in the upstairs of the Book Loft. 

The town is surrounded by the vineyards of the Santa Ynez Valley, many of which have tasting rooms in town.

Other curiosities in the area include the miniature ponies at the Quicksilver Ranch and  OstrichLand USA  Ostrich farm or take a private tour of  Mendenhall's Museum of Gasoline Pumps and Petroliana  in nearby Buellton.

There's also a casino at the nearby Chumash Indian Reservation. The hotel and spa at the  Chumash Resort  get good ratings, but if gaming is your primary getaway goal, there are better places to go near Palm Springs, San Diego, or Temecula.

• 122 miles, 2 hours 6 minutes

Mountain Getaway to Lake Arrowhead

Raphye Alexius/Image Source/Getty Images

The two most popular mountain destinations from LA are  Lake Arrowhead  and Big Bear Lake. They are only about 25 miles from each other, so if you're going overnight, you could do both.

Lake Arrowhead is closer to LA than Big Bear Lake. The town is smaller and quieter, and many people find its half-timber alpine architecture prettier than Big Bear's more rustic vibe. However, there is less access to the lake itself, as the entire lakefront is private property. For the visiting public, the Lake Arrowhead Resort and Spa has a restaurant overlooking the lake, a small beach, and boat tours and fishing charters in the summer. Resort guests also have access to the Lake Arrowhead Golf and Country Club at the north end of the lake. In theory, there's a public trail around Lake Arrowhead, but visitors should be prepared to show their room key when hiking around the lake.  

The Village is a shopping area with a variety of boutiques and outlet stores. They also operate the Arrowhead Queen lake tours on a riverboat and a water-skiing school. During the summer, they host a series of free concerts, and in the fall they have a free Oktoberfest (the more famous one in Big Bear charges admission).

There are other accommodations in town including the Saddleback Inn, which offers private cabins, a couple B&Bs and an abundance of vacation rentals, including some large enough to host a family reunion or staff retreat.

The nearest ski resorts to Lake Arrowhead are about 14 miles east on Highway 18, about halfway between Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake Village:  Snow Valley  for downhill skiing, and Rim Nordic for cross country skiing and snowshoeing.

• 85.7 miles, 1 hour 37 minutes

Big Bear Lake Ski Getaway

Big Bear Lake  is more developed than Lake Arrowhead, with a lot more recreational options and—usually—more affordable accommodations. The Village at Big Bear Lake is more California mountain rustic than its neighbor, although it has a little of that too. It's still very walkable.

Big Bear is a year-round destination. It's LA's most popular ski escape in winter, with the highly rated Snow Summit just minutes from town and the nearby Bear Mountain offering the biggest beginner and teaching ski area around. Big Bear also has an abundance of summer fun from water sports to hiking, ATVing, and zip-lining, making it a better family destination than Lake Arrowhead.

Housing options range from tent camping to cabin or condo rental to lodges and resorts, so you can plan a getaway for any size group on any budget.

• 103 miles, 2 hours

Old Hollywood Palm Springs Getaway

TripSavvy / Taylor McIntyre

Palm Springs  has been a very popular getaway spot from LA since the days when early movie makers used the desert oasis as a set for shooting westerns in the 1930s. You can still see some old west movie sets on a Red Jeep Tour, however, the mass of Mid-Century Modern construction in the 1950s and 60s is more what defines the city's unique look today. Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra, and Dina Shore had iconic Desert Modern estates built in the area. Taking a  guided tour  or using the app or map for a self-guided tour of the modernist architectural landmarks is a popular activity. Every February, the city host a celebration of its architecture during Modernism Week.

You can also take a jeep tour, hummer tour or sunset tour of the San Andreas Fault out in the desert or the San Gorgonio windmills. Many tours depart from neighboring Palm Desert.

Many people go to Palm Springs to just hang out by the pool at their resort hotel and don't really care about doing much else other than finding an interesting place for dinner, of which there are plenty. Resorts are surrounded by manicured golf courses and tennis courts, so you can stay busy without wandering out into the town or the natural environment at all.

Taking the Aerial Tram up to the top of the San Jacinto Mountains is the most popular attraction in the area. The temperature drops drastically from the desert floor to the mountaintop. In winter it might be 60 degrees at the bottom and snowy at the top.

If you want to explore the desert, Indian Canyon is a good place to start. You can explore on your own or take a combination jeep and hiking tour. You can also tour the Palm Springs Wildland Preserves, take a tour that visits a wolf sanctuary or takes a 20-mile bike tour along the San Andreas Fault zone. 

If you'd rather admire the latest fashions and contemporary art than the local flora and fauna, you can take an insider tour of the area's best shopping and art galleries.

The Palm Springs area is home to a number of casinos.

For a really unique Palm Springs luxury getaway, you can  rent Frank Sinatra's house , Twin Palms, a 4-bedroom Mid-Century residence with a piano-shaped pool that still includes original modern furnishings and memorabilia. The house is also available for weddings, corporate events, and private dinner parties. If you're in town with a group of 20-45 people, you can schedule a private tour.

• 112 miles, 1 hour 51 minutes

Desert Getaway to Joshua Tree

TripSavvy / Chris VR

Joshua Tree National Park , with its iconic desert "trees" and enormous boulder formations is a Mecca for rock climbers and hikers. In spring the wildflower enthusiasts descend. Camping is the most common way to experience the park, but there are a number of hotels, bed and breakfasts, and vacation rentals in the town of Joshua Tree and nearby Twenty-Nine Palms.

• 133 miles, 2 hours 13 minutes

Glen Ivy Hot Springs Getaway

courtesy of Glen Ivy Hot Springs

If you're looking for a day of relaxation, a day away at  Glen Ivy Hot Springs  could do the trick. Built on a natural mineral spring near Corona, CA, the 11-acre spa offers a variety of experiences included in their day rate from mineral baths to mud pools and fitness classes, so you could spend the entire day without ever scheduling a treatment. If you do want a massage, facial or other individualized therapy, it's best to book in advance. Most people do Glen Ivy as a day trip, since there's no hotel on the premises, and it's just over an hour from LA, but there are hotels nearby if you want to make a weekend of it. It can get a bit rowdy with bachelorette parties and bigger crowds on spring and summer weekends, so It's most relaxing on a weekday or in midwinter when it's less crowded. It's a desert area, so it's pretty hot in summer, but can still fill up on weekends.

• 63.3 miles, 1 hour 8 minutes

Temecula Old Town Getaway

Temecula is one of those places you definitely have to go to on purpose because it's not on the way to anywhere else you're likely to be going (although you can take a day tour from Palm Springs). For oenophiles, the big draw is the  Temecula Valley wine country , with over 30 vineyards, most of which offer wine tastings. The scenery is beautiful, and wonderfully photogenic, especially in the fall.

The Temecula Olive Oil Company offers Olive View Ranch tours a couple Saturdays a month by reservation, or you can stop by their tasting room in Old Town any day to sample fresh California extra-virgin olive oils and flavored vinegar. In Old Town, where new architecture matches the original old west buildings, you'll also find cute boutiques, specialty shops and restaurants, a lively community theater and a jazz club.

The  Pechanga Resort and Casino  is another big draw in the area. The AAA Four Diamond resort, owned by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians, is the largest casino in the Western US, offering slots, blackjack, poker, craps, and roulette 24/7. If you're not gambling, you can still spend a day at the spa, play a round of golf at the Journey at Pechanga golf course, enjoy big-name entertainment in multiple venues and dine at 10 different eating establishments. There is also an  RV Resort  adjacent to the casino.

Other popular activities in Temecula are hot air ballooning and horseback riding or playing the six championship golf courses. For beer-lovers, there are also four  breweries  in the area.

Temecula hosts an annual Balloon and Wine Festival at the end of May or beginning of June, as well as numerous other music, arts, food and wine festivals throughout the year.

• 90.6 miles, 1 hour 32 minutes

Orange County Beach Getaway

Like the northern LA County Beaches in Malibu, the  southern beaches in Orange County  are more geographically scenic than the long straight stretch through Huntington Beach and it feels more like a getaway the farther south you go. Unlike Malibu, most of the local beach cities also have tons of shopping, nightlife, boat tours, beach butlers and lots of hotels and resorts.

If you were starting at LAX, you could drive along the small coastal roads through the South Bay Beach Cities, around the Palos Verdes Peninsula, through  San Pedro , across the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, through  Long Beach , then back to Pacific Coast Highway to the Orange County beach cities of  Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Laguna Beach, Dana Point and San Clemente. It takes a couple hours, but it's scenic, and you see parts of LA most locals never do. However, if you're starting in Hollywood or Downtown LA, it makes a lot more sense to hop on the freeway, and you can be there in just over an hour. By freeway, it takes about the same time to get to any one of the Orange County beaches down to Dana Point, since you're dropping in on them from above. Driving along the coast, it can take a half hour to an hour to get from Huntington Beach to Dana Point, depending on traffic.

Huntington Beach is the northernmost beach. Surf City, USA has more working class roots than beaches farther south, but it has added a number of upscale gastropubs and fine dining establishments to offset the surfer bars. If you just want to experience that laid-back surfer lifestyle, you'll find it in Huntington Beach, and it may be more affordable than the more southern beaches.

Next is Newport Beach, a 10-mile stretch which is both very affluent and densely populated. It has some of the county's best high-end shopping at Fashion Island, as well as unique boutiques along Pacific Coast Highway. They also have some of the best waves for pro surfers near the pier. Within the embrace of the Newport, Peninsula is a couple of islands accessible by bridge or ferry that are primarily residential, but Balboa Island has a strip of cute shops and restaurants. There are year-round gondola rides around the channels and during the holiday season, special boat tours of the Christmas lights, as well as multiple nights of Christmas boat parades. With the limited road access to the islands and the peninsula, driving and parking can be a real challenge during the summer. At the southern end of the city, Crystal Cove State Park stretches into Laguna Beach, It is a popular spot for tide pooling on the beach side, and hiking into the hills on the inland side of Pacific Coast Highway.

For the entire summer, it's taken over by  Laguna Beach art festivals —three of them at once—and the  Pageant of the Masters  living pictures production. The rest of the year it still has the most scenic beaches, an exceptional number, and range of art galleries, great restaurants, and nice hotels. For those who like to meet the artists, Laguna Canyon road is lined with artist studios and workshops, some of which are open to the public.

South of Laguna is Dana Point, a small town with a harbor deep enough to host  three tall ships , two of them at the Ocean Institute. The big draws in Dana Point are the 5-star accommodations at the  Ritz-Carlton Laguna Niguel  on Salt Creek Beach and the Monarch Beach Resort, adjacent to the Monarch Beach Golf Links.

Both Newport Beach and Dana Point are famous for their  whale watching  excursions, which Dana Point celebrates with a Festival of Whales the first two weekends in March.

South of Dana Point, Capistrano Beach sits below the town of San Juan Capistrano,  separated from a high bluff by the Coast Highway. The beach itself is a narrow strip of sand between the parking lot and the water.  Mission San Juan Capistrano  is a pilgrimage destination for fans of California and Catholic history, as well as the famous swallows that return every spring. The Mission has a special prayer room within the Serra Chapel dedicated to Saint Peregrine, the patron saint of cancer sufferers.

San Clemente, the southernmost Orange County beach, has the distinction of being the only one where the Metrolink or Amtrak trains let you off steps from the beach. You can take a train from  Union Station  in  Downtown LA  and be on the beach in San Clemente in an hour and a half. San Clemente State Beach also has a  campground , so despite the high property values of those Spanish-style homes, you can actually have a very economical getaway to San Clemente. The town has an even more small-town laid-back vibe than Huntington Beach.

Legoland Road Trip Getaway

Carlsbad is a beach town 95 miles south of Los Angeles, now most famous for being the home of LEGOLAND, CA. It was named for the mineral water discovered in 1882, which had a similar mineral composition to the healing waters of what was then Carlsbad, now Karlovy Vary in the Czech Republic. The mineral water spa was a popular attraction during the depression when it was abandoned. The well was re-drilled and the ​ Carlsbad Mineral Water Spa  finally re-opened in 1996. It is a California Historic Site as well as a full-service day spa, but it's not why most people head to Carlsbad.

Families with young children flock to Carlsbad to visit Legoland, a LEGO-themed park with rides and attractions, including special winter-only rides. The Legoland Resort includes two water parks and the Sea Life Aquarium. 

Adults go to Carlsbad to shop the  Carlsbad Premium Outlets , as a dedicated trip, or on the way to San Diego, and seasonally to visit 50 acres of cultivated flower gardens at the  Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch . It's also a nice beach getaway with nice hotels, good restaurants and a beautiful beach with free parking. Downtown Carlsbad is cute to walk around. If you're staying in town, an excursion to the   Craftsmanship Museum  of miniature model engineering, the  Museum of Music Making , or the  GIA gem museum  could add a little diversity to your trip.

• 95.6 miles, 1 hour 37 minutes

La Jolla Surfing Getaway

TripSavvy / Sharyn Umaña-Angers

La Jolla , as its name implies, is the jewel of the San Diego coastline. The affluent northern neighborhood in San Diego has seven miles of waterfront, including the city's three most scenic beaches: La Jolla Cove, La Jolla Shores, and Windansea. The northernmost beach, La Jolla Shores, is a long stretch that merges with Torrey Pines State Beach. It is the most coveted spot for walking, running or lying in the sun, but can be very crowded. La Jolla Cove is surrounded by rocky cliffs and has limited sandy area, but is great for exploring the tide pools at low tide and is the best beach for snorkeling or scuba diving. Windansea is a popular spot for more advanced surfers with hard-breaking waves close to shore.

La Jolla has an abundance of unique shopping, top restaurants, and scenic walks as well as an award-winning theater, one of the top arts festivals in the state and free summer concerts.

• 117 miles, 2 hours

San Diego Sightseeing Getaway

San Diego is a couple hours south of Los Angeles. There are certainly enough attractions in San Diego to fill a week-long vacation, but it's possible to pop down from LA just for the day. You can visit Old Town, have lunch, spend a few hours on a hop on, hop off trolley tour, take a boat tour or visit Balboa Park or  Coronado Island  (both stops on the trolley tour), or take a segway tour and have dinner in the Gas Lamp District and make it back to LA in the same day. You could also spend the whole day doing one thing, like visiting the famous San Diego Zoo and Wild Animal Park or  SeaWorld .

If you're fond of gaming, the San Diego area also has a number of top-rated Indian Casinos.

• 126 miles, 2+ hours

Getaway to Catalina Island

This favorite getaway for Angelenos is not exactly a road trip, although you have to start out by road. You'll need a ferry to get to  Catalina Island —or a helicopter. Its major city, Avalon, once known as ​a sleepy place with not much to do, now offers all kinds of pampering and adventure experiences, from beach-side massages to  zip-lining  down a mountain.

If you want to get further away from it all, Twin Harbors, at the other end of the island, lacks most of the mod cons of Avalon but is a popular camping and hiking destination.

• 29 miles, 36 min to San Pedro; 30 miles, 36 min to Long Beach, plus 22 miles by ferry

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• Los Angeles

The Best LA Road Trips to Take This Spring

From baja to the north coast, here's everywhere to explore and where to stop and eat along the way..

Updated on 4/17/2023 at 4:39 PM

When you’re thinking about getting out of town, it’s easy to focus only on the destination, to let your mind jump to ‘when we get there’ and euro-step right by ‘on the way.’ But that’s a rookie mistake. California is a great state for road trips, and that’s not just because of the beautiful places at the end of the road. Whether you’re going north along the length of the state, headed south toward the border, or east into the desert , there are many fantastic spots within easy driving distance that also have plenty of fun stops along the way.

To help guide you, we’ve compiled a list of ten of the best road trips from LA. There are places to visit in every direction, with some route guidance for the best stops to make your journey as fun as the destination. Here are the 10 best road trips from LA right now.

Paso Robles

Distance from LA: 3 hours Central California’s wine country is an easy skip up from Southern California, but that doesn’t mean you have to burn rubber all the way. It’s usually a little faster to take the 5 and cut over through the mountains, but it’s a lot more pleasant to drive up the 101. Then you can pop out for coffee in Ventura, a snack in Santa Barbara , stretch your legs in the Santa Maria Valley , and enjoy the cool beach air on the way up. You’re probably going to Paso for wine, and there are many great choices , but don’t overlook the food and beer. Try ramen and cookies at Paso Market Walk food hall, The Hatch for modern Southern dining that’s become a local institution, wood-fired pizza at Lebber’s , and Central Coast BBQ tri-tip at Cregor’s . There’s also Barrel House , Silva , KiloKilo , and legendary Firestone-Walker breweries.

Distance from LA: 6 hours California’s capital city is often maligned as a backwater “cow town,” but if you haven’t been in a while it may be time for a revisit. The city has a lovely farm-to-table food scene with great modern Mexican food , some outstanding coffee shops , and a beautiful waterfront along both banks of the Sacramento River just west of downtown. You can also visit all sorts of California landmarks, from the capitol building and its surrounding park to the Stanford Mansion and more. On your way up, take the 99 freeway to breeze through Bakersfield for a Basque banquet , Fresno for their vaunted brewery district , and a swing through Merced for some retro small town charm .

Napa Valley

Distance from LA: 6.5 hours Plenty of physical and digital ink has been spilled about the Napa Valley, California’s most prestigious and fanciest wine region, and there are a ton of fantastic reasons to visit . That includes wine, of course, but also all of the luxurious things that spring up in places where people with disposable income congregate—fine dining, spas, hot air balloons, glamping, golfing, bocce ball, and more. On the way up, pull off the 580 in Pleasanton in the East Bay for Southeast Asian noodles and the jelly dessert Kuih Lapis at Nyonya Cafe , followed by spectacular coffee and more gorgeous desserts at Kamurocho .

Valle de Guadalupe

Distance from LA: 4 hours There is also wine country to the south of LA, a few hours across the border in the Valle de Guadalupe. Like Napa, Paso, and Santa Barbara to the north, Baja’s wine country has fantastic juice, beautiful natural landscapes, and a special food scene that’s more than worth a visit . On your way to your idyllic eco-conscious luxury resort in the Valle, you may want to hop out for a bite in San Diego . Then you’ll likely cross the border into Tijuana, which gives you the opportunity to take advantage of that city’s thrilling food—seek out birria , mariscos , adobada , and so much more at various stands around town, or pop by Telefónica Gastro Park to check out some new-wave vendors in the TJ scene.

Distance from LA: 6 hours It’s weird to recommend a road trip outside of California—this isn’t the East Coast, where you can accidentally visit like eight states on a casual afternoon drive. But Arizona is closer than you think, and there are fun things to do in Phoenix, even though baseball’s spring training is over. The food scene is fun and diverse , there’s electric nightlife , and the Desert Botanical Garden is a miracle if you are interested in desert plants. The drive over is a straight shot on the 10 East, so next time you get a little fed up with that 110 North connector, maybe keep going another six or so hours through the desert. You’ll pass through Palm Springs and right by Joshua Tree before drifting across a few hundred miles of peaceful, flat desert landscape that makes for a surprisingly soothing and meditative drive.

Kings Canyon National Park

Distance from LA: 4.5 hours Everyone should visit Yosemite as often as they can, but limiting your adventures in the Sierras to Yosemite is like playing “Grindin” on repeat and ignoring Hell Hath No Fury . Kings Canyon is less popular than its neighbors but no less stunning for it. There are giant groves of Sequoias, hidden waterfalls, and the most remote scenic drive in America . The road to get there brings you on the 99 through the heavily agricultural Central Valley, and it’s worth taking a minute to appreciate the landscape that provides so much of the world’s produce. Or just pop out in Bakersfield for tortas ahogadas at Loncheria Otro Rollo , coffee at Cafe Smitten , or a beer at Dionysus .

Distance from LA: 5.5 hours There is no shortage of funky beach towns up and down the California coast, but if you’re headed out for a road trip, you may as well go to Santa Cruz, the funkiest of them all. The city has managed to maintain its chill vibes even in the face of an influx of digital nomads from San Francisco, and the bay’s killer surf break isn’t going anywhere. All of the usual outdoorsy adventures are at the tip of your toes, from surfing to hiking to kayaking and beyond, and the area’s wine and beer scenes are top-notch. Check out Sante Adairius or Humble Sea for some of the best beers in California, stop into Apero Club for fun and accessible natural wines, or browse Bad Animal for wine, books, and snacks. Cut over from the 5 and land in Paso Robles, which is a perfect halfway point to stretch your legs and grab some food for the second half of the drive through the Central Coast.

The Grand Canyon

Distance from LA: 8 hours The line between iconic and cliche is a fine one, and a road trip to the Grand Canyon dances back and forth across it. You could end up in Joe Dirt , National Lampoon’s Vacation , or countless other movies and TV shows. But there’s a reason the Grand Canyon gets so much shine in popular media—it lives up to its billing as one of the few legitimately awe-inspiring places in the country. The drive from LA to the South Rim takes you northeast through the Mojave Desert. That means there aren’t a ton of obvious stops along the way, but it’s nevertheless a beautiful and unique drive.

Distance from LA: 8 hours If you want your road trip to take you off the grid, consider the small North Coast community of Sea Ranch. The collection of architecturally significant homes was first developed in the 1960s as a place where dwellings would blend in to the natural landscape, built using local wood and designed to allow as much natural light as possible. There are some 50 miles of trails to explore, in addition to tennis courts, playgrounds, a library, and a deep sense of tranquility that blankets the stretch of rugged coastline. There are homes for rent, and The Lodge has just reopened its restaurant, bar, cafe, and store after a lengthy renovation, and is set to begin accepting guests for single rooms this summer. The route from LA takes you up through Oakland, Marin County, and Petaluma, which means you’ve got a ton of fun stops to make on the long drive up to the remote coast.

San Francisco

Distance from LA: 6 hours California’s most obvious driving destination is probably the best, so don’t overthink it—San Francisco is an incredibly fun place to visit. The food, art, history, and natural beauty are all great reasons to make the trip, even if it’s not precisely the mellow Beatnik paradise it used to be. You’ll probably drive right up the 5 without any particularly interesting stops, though you can always pop over the 152 freeway through Gilroy and into the South Bay to get up to the city. It adds a few minutes—especially at rush hour—but it opens a whole world of places to get out along the way, from snacks and tech history in San Jose to breweries in San Mateo and outstanding baked goods .

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25 Best Road Trips From Los Angeles

If you live in Los Angeles or just visiting the City of Angels, it is the perfect place from which to go on road trips and explore the best of what California has to offer.

Featuring amazing state and national parks, routes ranging from arid deserts to lush forests and the odd city break, this list has everything with itineraries all over California and beyond.

Starting with the closest to LA, this list of road trips from Los Angeles is ordered by how long it will take you to get there.

1 hour from Los Angeles (34 miles)

At only just over 30 miles from Los Angeles, Malibu is the closest of the road trips on our list, but driving across from downtown can take much longer than you think - at busy times it can easily take an hour and a half although you can make it in 40 minutes on a quiet Sunday morning.

A world away from the busy streets of LA, Malibu stretches some 30 miles along the Pacific Coast highway once you go past Santa Monica and the Pacific Palisades.

Many will associate Malibu with the rich and famous and expensive ocean-facing villas, but Malibu is about a whole lot more than that.

There are several large parks, canyons and beaches to explore along the length of Malibu. If you love your wine, there are some stunning wineries that you can explore such as the Malibu Solstice Vineyard - the wine is great but the views might be even better!

With miles of beach to explore, the Malibu Pier is a popular destination along the Malibu coastline, but make sure you drive a bit further to the El Matador State Beach. You'll need suitable footwear to get down the steep path and there are no facilities or lifeguards on this rocky beach, but the scenery is stunning and you can relax in peace and quiet for hours.

2. Laguna Beach and Orange County

1 hour from Los Angeles (50 miles)

Orange County is well known for its amazing beaches from the iconic Huntington Beach Pier and Huntington State Beach to the Spanish Village by the Sea of San Clemente. Laguna Beach is home to some of the best beaches in the county such as Woods Cove Beach and Victoria Beach with the iconic La Tour tower.

An hour or less away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Laguna Main Beach in Laguna Beach is a perfect escape on a day road trip from Los Angeles.

From picture-perfect white sand beaches to romantic rock-lined coves, you can find your kind of beach along the 7-mile length of the Pacific Coast.

Known as a center for artists and water activities, Laguna Beach has a large number of hotels and beachside resorts if you want to stay for the weekend. There are plenty of hiking and mountain bike trails with amazing views if you want to stay onshore.

Please check our comprehensive guide out to learn more:

READ MORE - Our Guide to Laguna Main Beach

3. Santa Catalina Island

1 hour 30 minutes from Los Angeles (25 miles + a ferry)

Getting to Santa Catalina Island from Los Angeles is relatively easy - it will only take about 30 minutes to drive down to Long Beach or San Pedro. From there you will need to catch a high speed ferry that takes around an hour to cross the 22 miles of water.

There are two destinations on Santa Catalina Island that you can get to - the Two Harbors and Avalon. The only ferries going to Two Harbors go from San Pedro, but Avalon is a perfect place to explore the island from.

You can go on a Jeep tour or rent a golf buggy to explore surrounding areas although there are plenty of trails to go about on foot.

Other than enjoying the views and a great lunch in one of the many very decent restaurants, there's everything from zip lining to lounging on a beach or visiting a winery on the menu.

If you want to stay over, there are several hotels in Avalon where you can spend the night and enjoy the island in the quieter evening and morning periods when the crowds have departed or not yet arrived.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Santa Catalina Island

4. Carlsbad

1 hour 30 minutes from Los Angeles (90 miles)

The Carlsbad-based Legoland California was the third Legoland in the world and the first outside Europe when it first opened its doors in March 1999. This road trip from Los Angeles to Carlsbad is the perfect family-friendly adventure.

Today the large theme park has more than 60 rides split across a number of zones with something for every age group. There are plenty of rides and things to do even for the youngest Lego fans. This makes Legoland one of the best road trips from Los Angeles for families with kids of any age.

Generally open from 10am to 5pm, Legoland has longer opening hours over weekends and in the summer but check before you go - it can be closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays or on special event days. Although Legoland is open all year round, the water rides are a lot more fun in warm weather!

Attractions include roller coasters, visiting an actual Lego factory and a display of famous US cities made out of Lego including New York, New Orleans and San Francisco. Along with these, you can visit the Sealife Aquarium which has a walk-through tunnel and Lego decorations inside the tanks.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Carlsbad

5. Santa Barbara

1 hour 40 minutes from Los Angeles (95 miles)

The charming city of Santa Barbara is under 2 hours north of Los Angeles and is widely considered one of the best places to live in California if not the whole of the U.S.

In recent years a number of Hollywood's and TV's most famous celebrities have made Santa Barbara their home or their home away from home including Oprah and Brad Pitt.

The one sight you really should see is the Old Mission Santa Barbara - a Franciscan mission with beautiful gardens.

Other than that, Santa Barbara is all about the relaxed lifestyle. There's a great selection of restaurants and bars and a great historic waterfront with the Stearns Wharf pier and the palm-lined East Beach.

Santa Barbara is great to visit all year round but in the summer months it can get pretty busy not just with Angelinos escaping the city, but also big influx of tourists.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Santa Barbara

6. Palm Springs

1 hour 45 minutes from Los Angeles (107 miles)

Palm Springs has long been a well known getaway destination for Angelinos all year round. Located a short drive away in the Californian desert, Palm Springs became popular in mid-20th century as the playground of the rich and famous.

A lot of the buildings and infrastructure in Palm Springs dates back to that golden time - the hotels and houses have that straight-lined modernist style. They love the style so much, Palm Springs hosts their Modernism Week event every October.

Average highs during the summer months are in the 100s (over 40 degrees C) so if you're going during the hottest part of the year, you will appreciate the availability of pools. Most hotels have luxurious pools and spa facilities but if your accommodation doesn't have one, you can usually pay to use the ones in the big hotels.

Don't miss the Aerial Tramway which takes you up a mountain in a gondola. It is the largest rotating gondola in the world and takes you from Coachella at the bottom to the top of San Jacinto Peak.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Palm Springs

7. San Diego and La Jolla

2 hours from Los Angeles (120 miles)

San Diego is the perfect weekend road trip from Los Angeles at just a 2 hour drive down the coast along the San Diego Freeway.

There is a lot to do in San Diego - you can easily stretch to a long weekend to make the most of your trip. The beaches are the best place to relax whether you're catching some sun or want to catch the waves.

Make sure you try the local fish tacos and ride the bright red trolleys. If there's one sight you should visit, it's the world-famous San Diego Zoo. The pandas are the stars and going early or late is the best way to see them as they will snooze through most of the day.

The Gaslamp neighborhood is where most of the action is in town - restaurants and bars of every kind are here and you can sit at a table outside to catch the evening breeze and watch the evening set in.

La Jolla is a wealthy neighborhood to the north of downtown San Diego. It's perfect for a stroll or an expensive lunch at a gourmet restaurant. Don't miss the seals and sea lions that have made the La Jolla Cove their home!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to San Diego

8. Lake Arrowhead and Big Bear Lake

2 hours from Los Angeles (100 miles)

Lake Arrowhead and the Big Bear Lake are perfect for exploring the outdoors all year round. At only 2 hours from Los Angeles, they are perfect for a day trip or a weekend road trip from LA.

Lake Arrowhead and the Big Bear Lake are only 15 miles apart but the mountainous terrain means it takes the best part of an hour to drive from one to the other.

Despite being close, the two are quite different to each other but both are amazing places to come all year round. Big Bear Lake is a large lake with a ton of activities for the fans of outdoors. You can hire a boat or bring your own, enjoy all kinds of water-based activities or go skiing in the winter at Snow Mountain and Bear Mountain resorts.

Lake Arrowhead is more relaxed and upmarket - the majority of the lake shoreline is privately owned and there is less focus on active outdoors pursuits in favor of fancy retreats and restaurants. You can still stroll along the lake at Lake Arrowhead Village and go on a boat tour if you wish.

Lake Arrowhead is much lower down and as a result has less snow in the winter, although considerably easier to drive up to. If you're going for the weekend, check both lakes out to compare and contrast!

2 hours 20 minutes from Los Angeles (130 miles)

The village of Solvang is a little over 2 hours up the coast from Los Angeles and is a pretty village built in Danish style by a group of Danish settlers who moved here in 1911.

Incorporated as a city in 1985, Solvang's population is only around 5,000 so it has retained the cozy village feel.

Everywhere you look in Solvang, you can see the Danish roots coming through. The quirky architecture looks very European complete with a Danish windmill and small one or two-story shops.

There is not one, but two Danish-themed museums - one preserving the history of Solvang and its residents and one dedicated to the works of Hans Christian Andersen - the famous Danish writer.

Solvang is in fact so Danish, it was twice visited by the Danish royal family and the Danish ambassador attended the town's 100-year anniversary.

Other things to do include visiting the Santa Inés Mission dating back to 1804 and the opportunity to explore numerous vineyards near Solvang in the Santa Ynez valley.

10. Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park is the closest National Park to Los Angeles which makes it perfect for a weekend road trip.

Despite its name, it's important to remember that Joshua Tree is actually a huge and quite inhospitable desert. There will be a cactus growing here and there and other shrubs, but the landscape will largely be rocks and sand. Make sure you bring everything you need with you including a lot of water.

The National Park has very limited accommodation options but over 300 spots where you can camp. Once you've got your pass (the annual pass allows entry into all the other National Parks for 12 months), get set up and enjoy everything the park has to offer.

Spring is the best time to visit as the temperatures are reasonable and some of the desert plants actually flower (yes - it's a thing). Summers here can be incredibly hot making it near impossible to go on hikes or camp - you have been warned!

There are endless hiking trails, paths to explore and walking itineraries - the park is huge so you can come dozens of times and still only see a fraction of it.

Some of the most popular destinations are the Intersection Rock and Arch Rock formations on opposite ends of the park. You can also try out rock climbing or walk up Keys View (the highest point in the park). From the top you get fantastic views over the Coachella Valley and on a clear day you can see as far as Signal Mountain in Mexico!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Joshua Tree National Park

11. Salton Sea

2 hours 20 minutes from Los Angeles (160 miles)

Salton Sea is the largest lake in California that is 236 ft (72m) below sea level and has saltier water than the Pacific Ocean. It was accidentally created in 1905 by engineers trying to divert the flow of the Colorado River which flooded the plain for 2 years when the engineering works went wrong.

In mid-20th century, the area was developed to become a popular getaway destination - resorts were built and towns sprang up to host visitors.

Today, the 45 mile by 20 mile sea is largely empty and devoid of people. Located in the middle of a desert and far away from major cities, the tourism industry declined over a few decades which surprisingly means it's a perfect place to visit.

With hiking trails all around and 1 state and 2 national parks nearby, there is a lot of nature to explore. You can do some bird watching or camp under the stars at one of the hundreds of camping spots.

If you get bored, there are attractions like the International Banana Museum (no, really) or artist installations in and around Borrego Springs or Salvation Mountain.

Remember that despite its name, Salton Sea is in the middle of a hot desert and summer temperatures will average in the 100s (over 40 °C) so bring plenty of water - it will feel very very hot.

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles to Salton Sea

12. Ventura and the Channel Islands National Park

2 hours 30 minutes from Los Angeles (68 miles + a ferry)

Ventura or San Buenaventura as it is formally called is a coastal town between Los Angeles and Santa Barbara and only just over an hour from L.A.

Ventura is all about the ocean - the main things to do revolve around the harbor. You can hire a pedal boat or almost anything else that floats here and spot seals relaxing on piers or random boats.

One great thing to do is to go on a boat excursion to the Channel Islands - the island group starts around 20 miles from Ventura and stretches further out so the trip will take you the best part of a day.

Granted - relaxing on a boat and hiking around islands is maybe a questionable entry in the list of road trips from Los Angeles, but it's such a great option I had to include it. That and the fact you still have to drive part of the way!

The entire chain of 5 islands is designated as the Channel Islands National Park and the boat will take 1 to 3 hours one way depending on how far you plan to go. This is the least visited National Park in the entire country which is exactly why you should go - it's not on most tourists' radars making for a perfect day trip.

En route to the islands you can see dolphins, catch a glimpse of whales surfacing or flying fish. On the islands themselves, you can see condors, bald eagles, seals and the Island Fox - native to these islands. If you want to see more, you can hike along one of the trails that run along the islands.

You can even hire a kayak to explore the sea caves around the islands but check the waves before you do!

READ MORE - Road Trip from Los Angeles toVentura and Channel Islands National Park

13. Rosarito Beach, Mexico

3 hours from Los Angeles (150 miles)

Being so close to the Mexican border, it would be a shame not to include at least one road trip option that takes you across the border.

Rosarito beach, just south of Tijuana is a classic resort destination that is absolutely worth it for the mix of glamour and Mexican street food.

Tijuana is well known as a destination for those seeking a wild night out. But only a little further south is Rosarito Beach - a popular destination for Hollywood A-listers for decades before becoming more mainstream in recent years.

Sure, it is in Mexico, so you will still find loud parties and open air night clubs in the area which are great fun to go to. Otherwise, there are plenty of great resorts to get a tan and eat some locally caught lobster.

Make sure you bring your passports and get the right car insurance for the duration of your trip - do this online before you go! The border crossing into Tijuana is the busiest land border crossing in the world.

Queues at the border can take an hour or even two, but if you travel outside busy periods - at weekends or early afternoon, you might just breeze through.

14. Death Valley National Park

3 hours 30 minutes from Los Angeles (315 miles)

California's Death Valley has the hotly contested title (see what I did there?) of recording the world's hottest ever temperature - both for air temperature and ground measurements - the highest air reading was 56.7 °C (134.1 °F)

Death Valley gets incredibly hot in the summer months - daily averages from June to August will be in the 120s (over 45 °C) so going in the peak of the summer can be uncomfortable.

This desert is huge - the Death Valley National Park is the largest in the United States outside Alaska. Also, unusually for this part of the world, it has large sand dunes rather than the rocky kinds of desert in other parts of California, Nevada and Arizona.

Despite the conditions, Death Valley National Park is popular with tourists and in the spring you can find flowering wild flowers that have made this desert their home.

If you come and camp during late fall or early spring, you can benefit from the park's status as an International Dark Sky Park - there will be no night lights as far as the eye can see which can make for amazing stargazing - especially if you visit during the new moon.

15. Las Vegas

4 hours from Los Angeles (270 miles)

Las Vegas might just be the most popular city for a weekend getaway from Los Angeles . Only 4 hours' drive or a 1 hour flight for those who choose to fly, the endless entertainment of the Sin City is easily reached on a weekend road trip.

The drive through the Mojave desert is great and there are plenty of food options on the way should you set off after work on a Friday and need to grab some dinner en route.

Whether you're coming to Vegas to do a bit of gambling, enjoy exquisite restaurants, bars and clubs or just want to stroll around town and do a bit of shopping, staying on the Strip is the way to go.

If you want a more relaxed vibe and a bit less slot machine noise in the lobby, the south end of the Strip is great - the Cosmopolitan doesn't have a casino and the Aria hotel is a great place to stay.

The main sights are close by too with the Bellagio Hotel and Fountains right next door and the themed Luxor, Excalibur and New York hotels a block south.

You can leave your car in the hotel - the taxis are cheap, most places are walkable and the Monorail makes getting around easy. Plus you can enjoy a drink or two on your way around town!

READ MORE - Road trip from Los Angeles to Las Vegas

16. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

5 hours from Los Angeles (270 miles)

The Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks are a 4 hour road trip Los Angeles and are the southernmost point of a long series of parks along the length of the Sierra Nevada mountains that include Yosemite and Tahoe National Forest.

Kings Canyon National Park is an extra hour on the road making the journey 5 instead of 4 hours from Los Angeles but if you only have time for one, the Sequoia National Park is an amazing place to visit.

The main attraction of visiting the parks are the giant sequoia trees that grow here. The tallest trees in the world are a must see and the majority grow in a forest between the Marble and Middle Forks of the Kaweah River.

The General Sherman Tree is located in the Sequoia National Park and is known as the largest tree in the world by volume. At 275 feet tall and 36 feet in diameter it is stunning to see - beware that you might have to wait in line to take a photo!

If you have time, make sure you climb the 400 steps to the top of Moro Rock and drive along Highway 180 (Kings Canyon Scenic Byway) - the 50-mile route takes you along a canyon in-between the two parks and is one of the most picturesque roads in the USA.

READ MORE - Road trip from Los Angeles to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

17. Big Sur and Highway 1

5 hours 30 minutes from Los Angeles (295 miles)

Another stretch option for a weekend road trip is the Big Sur . Not as far as San Francisco, it will still take you about as long to get to as you have to take the slower route along the coast.

The Big Sur is a long stretch of coast between Los Angeles and San Francisco between the Piedras Blancas Light Station and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

You can drive the coastline along Highway 1 which may just be one of the prettiest roads in the United States. The misty beaches and rocky coves pounded by waves are broken up by redwood forests and steep cliffs. If you're lucky you might see the California condors gliding overhead - they are the largest birds in North America and really amazing to see in real life.

The Bixby Bridge is one of the most famous sights along the Big Sur - it crosses the Bixby Creek at a height of 280 feet (85m) making for some of the best views of the coastline.

The bridge features in a lot of adverts, films and games and you can stop off either side to get a snap.

READ MORE - Road trip from Los Angeles to Big Sur

18. Phoenix and Scottsdale

5 hours 30 minutes from Los Angeles (380 miles)

Phoenix and Scottsdale may feel like a long drive, but the journey is only 380 miles along straight roads through the desert so a road trip from Los Angeles can be surprisingly quick.

Phoenix has been attracting tech startups and hip culture in recent years which means there is a lot of interesting things to see and do. A lot of the best sights around town relate to art or food.

From the Heard museum to street art exhibitions on the first Friday of the month, the art scene is booming. If you want to explore local nature, visit the Desert Botanical Garden. The title says it all - inside you can roam between giant saguaro cactus plants and all kinds of desert shrubs!

Summers in Phoenix can get unbearably hot - some locals including the retired community move out during the hot season to San Diego or other more moderate climates.

That said, the heat in Phoenix is very dry and so you don't feel it anywhere near as much as other southern states further east. If you're visiting between June and August, make sure you carry sunscreen and water everywhere with you.

19. Yosemite National Park and Mammoth Lakes

6 hours from Los Angeles (330 miles)

Yosemite National Park is one of the best-known in the United States and attracts high visitor volumes from California and neighboring states.

Despite covering some 748,000 acres, the majority of the visitors come to the 7 square mile section of Yosemite Valley. This scenic valley is covered by a pine forest and is home to famous landmarks such as the El Capitan and Half Dome summits.

If you venture into other parts of Yosemite, you will benefit from far fewer other people making for a more relaxed break. Beware that the majority of the park is designated wilderness - there are a number of wild animals including bears around so take care and follow guidance.

If you're going for hiking, check ahead as some trails are only open seasonally.

Mammoth Lakes are on the east side of Yosemite and offer yet more stunning scenery with jagged snow-covered mountain tops set alongside forests and tranquil lakes.

To get from Yosemite to Mammoth Lakes, you will need to cross the highest mountain pass in California - the Tioga Pass. At 9,943 feet above sea level (3,031 m), it can make you feel a little light-headed. It's best to cross if you've already stayed a night at either location and adjusted to the elevation.

READ MORE - Road trip from Los Angeles to Yosemite National Park and Mammoth Lakes

20. San Francisco

6 hours from Los Angeles (380 miles)

San Francisco needs little introduction and has got to be on your list of potential destinations for a road trip from L.A. It's a bit of a stretch for a weekend with a long drive to get there, so if you can stretch it by adding the Monday or make it into a longer trip, all the better.

There is a huge amount to do and explore in San Francisco. The steep streets and neighborhoods sitting atop hills are amazing in their own right, but there's also beaches, parks, amazing museums and sights that will keep you busy.

Make sure you tick the absolute musts - go to the Golden Gate Bridge and the Presidio neighborhood on its south side, check out Fisherman's Wharf and make sure you ride in the iconic cable cars.

Check out our list of the 50 Best Things to do in San Francisco to plan your trip!

The drive will take you around 6 hours if you go the most direct way along the I-5. The route along the coast is a lot more scenic but will add another two and a half hours to the journey.

READ MORE - Road trip from Los Angeles to San Francisco

21. Napa Valley and Sonoma

6 hours 30 minutes from Los Angeles (420 miles)

A list of California road trips would be incomplete without a wine tour and so the drive to Napa Valley is next on the list of the best road trips from Los Angeles .

Located just north of San Francisco, on the other side of San Pablo Bay, Napa Valley has gained international recognition for its wines and has firmly established itself as one of the best wine regions in the United States.

There are about 600 wineries in the Napa and Sonoma area that have tours or tasting rooms out of a total of about 1,200. So if tasting some great wines is something you enjoy doing, you can spend weeks trawling through the different spots and only visit a fraction of the vineyards!

If you get bored of wine, there are a number of microbreweries and distilleries in the area if you want something lighter or heavier instead!

Given the long drive, we'd really recommend you make a bigger trip out of it if you have the time. Add in a few days in San Francisco, a trip to Sacramento or a quick drive to the Point Reyes National Seashore to add a bit of variety.

READ MORE - Road trip from Los Angeles to Napa Valley and Sonoma

22. Grand Canyon National Park

7 hours from Los Angeles (490 miles)

The Grand Canyon is a stunning natural phenomenon - vertical cliffs plunge over a mile down into the red rock surrounding the gorge. The vast canyon is 277 miles long and is several miles wide making for surreal scenery.

Over 5 million visitors a year come to see the Grand Canyon and despite the long drive, it's definitely worth it if you get inspired by amazing nature.

Surrounding and running along the length of the canyon are large national parks and preserved areas where you can camp, hike and generally enjoy the outdoors. Some of the closest to the Grand Canyon Village (best place to head to from Los Angeles) are the Kaibab National Forest, the Coconino National Forest and the Mojave National Preserve.

Depending on time, you can combine your road trip to the Grand Canyon with either Vegas (see above) or the road trip to Flagstaff and Sedona (see below).

In fact, if you find yourself with 2 weeks spare, you could do the ultimate nature road trip from Los Angeles - start off going to the Sequoia National Park, then do Death Valley, Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon before heading south to Flagstaff, Sedona and Phoenix. Add in Salton Sea, Joshua Tree National Park and a stop at Palm Springs on the way back and you'll cover half of this list in one go!

READ MORE - Road trip from Los Angeles to Grand Canyon National Park

23. Sedona and Flagstaff

Located just to the south of the main sights of the Grand Canyon, Flagstaff and Sedona are at the epicenter of Arizona's red rock desert.

Surrounded by amazing rock formations and parks, Sedona is the better place to stay out of the two - it is a more charming town with better scenery and closer to some of the local sights.

Around Sedona, you will find famous rock formations that have become emblems of the Southwest - Cathedral Rock and Bell Rock. You have to see them to really appreciate the sheer size and color of the rocks.

Other sights include the Devil's Bridge Trail (pictured above) and you can go on hikes through the Red Rock State Park or the Slide Rock State Park on either side of Sedona.

If you want to make the drive out to the Grand Canyon, it is easily doable as a day road trip from either Flagstaff or Sedona so go and see it if you have the time!

READ MORE - Road trip from Los Angeles to Sedona

24. Sierra Nevada to Lake Tahoe

7 hours 30 minutes from Los Angeles (445 miles)

Lake Tahoe is an outdoors paradise that is equally great to visit in the summer and winter months.

Sitting on the border between California and Nevada, the scenic lake is surrounded by tall mountains making for stunning scenery both from the shoreline and from the top of these mountain peaks.

The route from Los Angeles to Lake Tahoe will take you along US-395 past some amazing national parks including the Sequoia National Park, Kings Canyon and Yosemite. If you're taking a week for your trip, you might want to spend 2-3 days at Lake Tahoe itself and go to one of these or the Mammoth Lakes on the way there and back to break up the journey.

In Lake Tahoe itself, it's all about water sports in the summer and skiing in the winter. Whether you want to paddle board, go about in a kayak or try out jet skis, you can try all of these out during the hot long summer. If you like to gamble, there are a few casinos in the towns surrounding the lake that are popular with visitors.

In the winter, there are several great resorts in the surrounding mountains and Heavenly might just be the best of the lot with stunning views of the bowl and the lake below from the ski slopes.

READ MORE - Lake Tahoe

25. Discover Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks in Utah

8 hours from Los Angeles (515 miles)

Continuing on the theme of nature-inspired road trips from Los Angeles , the Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks in Utah are truly special and if you have the time, they should definitely be at the top of your list of places to go to.

Bryce Canyon National Park is small at only 56 square miles and the main thing to see is the Bryce Canyon... which is not actually a canyon, but a number of large rock amphitheaters filled with the unique tall rock structures called hoodoos.

The park's elevation is 8,000 to 9,000 feet above sea level (2,400 to 2,700 meters) which means temperatures are cooler and the climate is more mild than other California and Arizona state and national parks.

Zion National Park is a little closer to Los Angeles and is named after the Zion Canyon that runs through it. This is an actual canyon and while not as vast as the Grand Canyon, it is incredibly scenic so make sure you go to both if you head up to Utah.

If you'd like to hike up to Angels Landing, you will need a permit and will need to make a reservation. Check the Zion National Park's website for more details.

READ MORE - Road trip from Los Angeles to Zion and Bryce Canyon National Parks

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8 Epic Weekend Road Trips from Los Angeles, California

Posted by Susannah Edelbaum July 20, 2021 Updated January 08, 2024

Living in Los Angeles can feel like a road trip in and of itself — friends live on the East Side but you’re based in Venice? Expect a two-hour drive, and don’t forget to hit the road with plenty of snacks and water.

But even diehard Angelenos need to escape the sprawl at some point. With mountains and desert to the east and some of the world’s most stunning coastline to the city’s north and south, taking a road trip from Los Angeles in any direction will lead you somewhere relaxing, worthwhile, or breathtakingly beautiful.

And for the most part, you don’t even have to leave the state. Whether it’s the chic environs of Santa Barbara or the rugged weirdness of the Salton Sea, these weekend road trips from LA offer something for everyone. And you only have to cross state lines for one of them ( hello, Las Vegas! There’s more to it than ringing, dinging, glittering casinos.)

And for clarity’s sake, the road trips from Los Angeles below leave from downtown, but as any Angeleno knows, YMMV (your mileage may vary.) While every option here is doable in a weekend from the city, do take traffic and business into account: if you leave very early in the morning or, even better, late at night, you’ll likely cut hours off your drive time.

By the way, remember to practice Leave No Trace principles at all of these destinations, but especially in Tahoe and at the national parks. Make sure you’re aware of wildlife and campfire rules, too.

Related Read : 11 Best Resorts in California for Rest & Relaxation

1. Joshua Tree National Park

Just under 800,000 acres and larger than the state of Rhode Island, this national park crosses two deserts (the Mojave and the Colorado), and is named for its most famous flora: the Yucca brevifolia tree of Dr. Seuss-like proportions.

Joshua trees are native to the higher, cooler Mojave Desert section of the park, but the Colorado Desert’s lower elevation to the east offers attractions of its own. There, avid hikers can do a loop around scenic Cottonwood Spring or take in a panorama of the Coachella Valley and San Andreas Fault from Keys View — and on a weekend road trip from Los Angeles, you should have plenty of time to explore vast sections of both sides of the park.

In addition to camping gear, just be sure to pack according to your interests. Joshua Tree, one of the best national parks near Los Angeles , is beloved for rock climbing, bouldering, stargazing, and birdwatching. There are even campgrounds with designated areas for horses, though keep in mind if you plan to ride that its BYOH (bring your own horse). If a vacay rental is more your style, Joshua Tree is a mecca for vintage-themed Airbnbs , and there are plenty with their own pools too.

As you’re planning your road trip out to the park, be sure to check the weather — spring and fall are typically temperate, while winter nights get down to freezing and summer days can hit 100 degrees. Advance reservations for a site in one of the park’s nine different campgrounds are always good idea. The closest entrance by car from Los Angeles is the park’s main entrance in the town of Joshua Tree itself.

There, you can stock up on supplies at the Saturday morning farmer’s market , enjoy a last restaurant meal at a funky diner-with-a-twist ( Crossroads Cafe) , or get a sense of the area’s longstanding status as a haven for artists and other creatives with a visit to the Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum of Assemblage Art. It’s a vast outdoor sculpture museum devoted to a local artist who spent the last 15 years of his life creating these massive works in the Mojave Desert.

• Distance from Los Angeles: 131 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic): 2 hours, 10 mins

Related Read: The Ultimate Los Angeles to San Francisco Road Trip

2. Death Valley National Park

For an even more intense weekend road trip desert experience, head to Death Valley National Park. It’s a more extreme environment than Joshua Tree, a little farther away, and at over three million acres, a whole lot bigger. But you can see plenty here in a weekend, whether you’re interested in canyons, waterfalls, or otherworldly sand dunes.

Just keep in mind as you’re planning when to go that summer temperatures can reach 120 degrees Fahrenheit and hiking is inadvisable after 10 a.m. Also, the Furnace Creek Campground takes reservations during the fall and winter, but all other campgrounds in all seasons are first-come, first-served. Luckily, road trippers who would prefer to forgo camping entirely have a couple great options right in the park: the historic Inn at Death Valley (yes, they have a pool) and the more rustic Panamint Springs Resort .

In the park itself, get ready to hike . The Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes is an easy-to-moderate two-mile trail where you’ll get to see the dunes that are visually synonymous with Death Valley’s landscape. More advanced hikers can take on Panamint Dunes, an eight-mile trail of moderate difficulty (you’ll need a high clearance vehicle to access the trailhead).

Looking for more of a mix of activities on your Death Valley road trip? There’s plenty to do nearby. Visit the Eastern California Museum to get a sense of surrounding Inyo County’s natural and cultural history. Enjoy a night at the theater at the historic Amargosa Opera House . And for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the park itself, the recently renovated Last Kind Words Saloon brings a bit of the Old West to mealtime.

• Distance from Los Angeles: 214 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic): 3 hours, 30 mins

Related Read:  12 Ideas for How to Spend One Day in Death Valley National Park

3. San Diego

Combine a mini beach vacation with a city break on a weekend road trip from Los Angeles down to San Diego. It may sound cheesy, but there’s truly something for everyone here, and in a mere couple hours from Los Angeles, you’ll find yourself in a city with a very different feeling from the one you just left.

So, culture first. In Balboa Park, pay a visit to the San Diego Museum of Art , the San Diego Air and Space Museum , or any one of the other 17 different arts and cultural venues you’ll find here. Balboa Park is also home to the San Diego Zoo (you’ll want a half-day just for the zoo’s 100 acres and 12,000 animals), or if you’d prefer to keep it moving, get the lay of the land by hiking one of Balboa’s many trails .

For a more outdoorsy experience, a half-hour drive from downtown San Diego lands you at Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve , set on 1,750 acres of incredible oceanfront. Looking for something a bit more chic? Spend a day at La Jolla Cove, a quaint village as well known for its shops and restaurants as it is for its stunning cliffs (great for sunset photos and snorkeling with sharks). If you want a true surf town vibe, head down to Ocean Beach to sit outside at a beach bar or watch the dogs play at the bayside dog beach.

If that’s not enough, there’s still plenty to do. Catch a movie at the old-school South Bay Drive-In , take a historic ferry to reach Coronado’s white-sand beaches, get a literal sense of local flavors at one of the city’s many farmer’s markets , and plunge into the past at Mission Basilica San Diego de Alcalá , the oldest Franciscan mission in the state.

• Distance from Los Angeles: 129 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic):  2 hours

Related Read: 7 Awesome Weekend Road Trips from San Francisco, California

4. Santa Barbara

For a chic weekend getaway, take a drive up the coast to Santa Barbara, a pleasant haven of beaches, vineyards, and historic architecture. If you’re traveling with your pup, you’re in luck — make your first stop the dog-friendly Arroyo Burro Beach (known to locals as Hendry’s Beach). East Beach, meanwhile, is ideal for families, thanks to its lifeguard stations, playgrounds, and volleyball courts.

Less than an hour inland, you’ll find yourself in the middle of Santa Barbara wine country. The tasting rooms at Andrew Murray Vineyards and Babcock Winery are just two options to get you started (assuming you have a designated driver, of course.) Back in town, the city’s urban wine trail makes it easy to taste a variety of local vintages at tasting rooms while leaving the car parked at your hotel. Start at Santa Barbara Winery and go from there.

For a sense of the area’s Spanish colonial history, pay a visit to the Old Mission Santa Barbara , founded in 1786, then explore the 11-acre estate Casa del Herrero in neighboring Montecito. Back in town, no Santa Barbara road trip is complete without a stroll down Stearns Wharf , and if you still haven’t gotten your culture fill, be sure to spend at least an hour at the Santa Barbara Museum of Art .

• Distance from Los Angeles: 95 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic):  1 hour, 50 mins

Related Read:   The 10 Best Camping Spots in Santa Barbara, California

5. Palm Springs

Thought you were done with the desert? Not so fast. Palm Springs, a city oasis in the Sonoran Desert, is less than two hours from the city and ideal for a relaxing weekend road trip from Los Angeles.

Known for its midcentury architecture, funky pool hotel scene, hot springs, and spas, the most scenic way to get the lay of the land is with a ride aboard the Palm Spring Aerial Tramway . After your ride, head into Downtown Palm Springs, where you can visit the Palm Springs Art Museum and the Agua Caliente Cultural Museum, in addition to plentiful bars, shops, and restaurants.

The culture museum displays the history of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, since more than 10 percent of the city of Palm Springs is on reservation land. This part of town is also home to plentiful galleries and antique store peddling midcentury wares.

From there, you can take your trip in a number of different directions. Greater Palm Springs actually comprises nine different cities (Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, Indian Wells, La Quinta, Indio, and Coachella), so no shortage of options.

But you won’t want to miss the mineral waters that first put Palm Springs on the map as a healing destination. Head to Desert Hot Springs (less than 20 minutes from Downtown Palm Springs by car), where you can sit in the healing waters at hotels like The Spring and the Desert Hot Springs Spa Hotel. Finally, take in the area’s natural beauty with a hike in Indian Canyons , where you’ll find a variety of trails suitable for all levels.

• Distance from Los Angeles: 107 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic):  1 hour, 45 mins

Related Read:   11 Best Scenic Drives in Southern California

6. The Salton Sea

Get ready to get weird. The Salton Sea, a lake created by accidental irrigation inflow from the Colorado River during the early 20th century, first blossomed into a resort town in the mid-20th century. But it then experienced a massive wildlife die-off thanks to contamination from local farms, spelling the end of the lake’s status as a Riviera-like destination. But despite being viewed as one of California’s worst ecological disasters ever, it’s worth a weekend road trip.

To kick off your time at the lake, start at the Salton Sea State Recreation Area , a genuinely beautiful stretch of shoreline great for fishing, kayaking, hiking and birdwatching (you can also camp.) To get a sense of the lake’s more elegant past alongside its offbeat present, take a drive to Bombay Beach. It’s where you’ll find the ruins of a former resort now home to a tiny community of artists — conveniently, they even stage the Bombay Beach Biennale on an annual basis.

For a weirder bit of local culture, stop into the International Banana Museum , which is exactly what it sounds like: a space devoted to a collection of over 25,000 banana-related items.

But this area is as scenic as it is unusual. For a moderate hike to caves formed around the same time as the Salton Sea, head to a ghost town (Durmid), which marks the beginning of the Bat Caves Buttes loop trail.

The Sonny Bono Salton Sea National Wildlife Refuge is both an important migratory route for numerous bird species and home to Rock Hill (an inactive volcano.) And finally, though it’s about a 25-minute drive from the art of Bombay Beach, visit the Salvation Mountain , a 50-foot-tall painted clay hill created by local sensation Leonard Knight.

• Distance from Los Angeles: 163 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic):  2 hours, 40 mins

Related Read:   12 Best Camping Spots in Anza-Borrego Desert State Park

7. Las Vegas

Viva Las Vegas! A weekend road trip here doesn’t have to include a single pull of a slot machine if you aren’t interested in gambling. Check out the Bellagio’s fountain or on-site botanical garden , see the Venetian’s legit indoor canal, go for a ride on the 550-foot-tall Caesar’s Palace Ferris wheel (the High Roller ), then move on to other, non-casino sights.

There’s no cultural venue more fitting to its environs than the Neon Museum , a collection of about 120 neon signs. Next, walk the Aria Fine Art Collection , a self-guided outdoor tour of 21 public art sites. When you’re ready to take a dip, you can buy day passes to area resorts or just pay the admission fee at places like the Citrus Grand Pool Deck and Circa’s Stadium Swim.

If you’ve had your fill of 24-hour neon, take a deep breath and head out to the Desert National Wildlife Refuge , an enormous wilderness home to mountain lions, hundreds of bird species, and 500 different kinds of plants. You may also want to catch a Cirque de Soleil show, eat at one of the city’s award-winning restaurants, or go hiking in Red Rocks. You can even hit the slopes at Lee Canyon (formerly called Ski Las Vegas.)

• Distance from Los Angeles: 269 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic) : 4 hours, 15 mins

Related Read:   Hit the Nature Jackpot: 15 Hikes Near Las Vegas, Nevada

8. South Lake Tahoe

Okay, it’s technically a bit too long to be a weekend road trip from Los Angeles. But if you have a few extra days to spare, South Lake Tahoe is a great choice for those interested in the outdoors who don’t want to rough it. Depending on the season, you should be able to make the most of the lake’s opportunities for beaches, skiing, kayaking, mountain biking, and hiking, among other adventures.

In the Sierra Nevada Mountains on the California-Nevada border, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in North America. One of its most popular (and admittedly most crowded) beaches is Sand Harbor , on the north side of the lake. Get there very, very early if you want parking on a weekend; cars start lining up around 7 a.m. to get a spot. Back over the border in California, Pope Beach is a mere three miles from the city of South Lake Tahoe. Road tripping in winter?

The mountains around the lake are home to numerous resorts. Skiers and riders can give the 3,600 acres and 30 lifts at Squaw Valley Alpine Meadows a try or ski across state lines at Heavenly Resort . No matter the season, don’t deprive yourself of the unmatched views from a ride either of the resort’s aerial tram rides (which are open to non-skiers.)

Lake Tahoe is an outdoor paradise, but you’ll also find historical and cultural offerings dotted around the lake. Visit the Tahoe Heritage Foundation’s Tallac Historic Site to get a sense of what life was like here a century ago, then head to Vikingsholm on the aptly named Emerald Bay. Open for tours during the summer, this 1929 mansion gives a peak into the lives of rich vacationers who first put Tahoe on the map as a resort destination.

Keep in mind that Tahoe names can be a bit confusing. Lake Tahoe is the name of the lake, but there’s no actual town called “Lake Tahoe.” South Lake Tahoe is a town on the south shore, and Tahoe City is on the north shore. Driving from one end of the lake to the other can take about 90 minutes each way in the summer, and South Lake Tahoe is much closer to LA than the north shore.

• Distance from Los Angeles: 440 miles
• Drive time without stops (or traffic):  8 hours

Related Read:   11 Breezy Oceanfront Camping Spots in California

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Seen in: California , Road Trips , West

Posted by Susannah Edelbaum

Susannah is a freelance writer based in Berlin. She grew up outside New York, went to school in Southern California, and currently gets most of her outdoors fixes on trips to Bavaria in the south of Germany. Susannah’s work has been published on many authoritative publications such as Fast Company, Modern Farmer and Vice.

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25 Fun Road Trips from Los Angeles

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: January 27, 2024

LA seems to have it all! But something to consider is that Los Angeles can also be a great jumping off point for adventures on the road. It’s hard to believe that within fairly short drives you can reach everything from the Grand Canyon to the great sequoias, and even Sin City.

For anyone who loves visiting the stunning national parks in the USA you’ll find over 10 national parks within easy reach of LA. Ready for a spectacular road trip adventure?

To help you plan for your next epic journey, this list has 25 of the best road trips from Los Angeles . You’ll find destinations that will take you along the coast, out into the desert, to Northern California, and beyond.

25 Fun Road Trips from LA

1.    pacific coast highway to big sur.

Number one on this list of fun road trips from LA is the one and only Pacific Coast Highway (PCH).

This classic coastal byway is world renowned. And the best way to do it is to set your sights on Big Sur, nature’s paradise.

If you plug it into your GPS it looks like the drive will take about 5 hours give or take the traffic. But the reality is, you don’t want to go too fast.

The beauty of the Pacific Coast Highway is to soak in the amazing views along the way.

And stop at any number of wonderful seaside towns like Santa Barbara and San Simeon.

Read our list of bests places to stop on the PCH for some itinerary inspiration on places to see on the way to Big Sur.

September through November and late spring around April and May is the best time of year for a Big Sur road trip. Summer brings the biggest crowds and December through February is rainy season.

NOTE ON HWY 1 ROUTE FALL 2023: 24 miles south of Big Sur Hwy 1 is closed from Lucia to Limekiln State Park due to a landslide. To get to Big Sur you’ll need to take Hwy 101 to Salinas then Hwy 68 West to Hwy 1 South and drive down the coast from Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea to Big Sur. Check the Big Sur highway conditions website for more information.

READ MORE: 28 Best USA Road Trips

Bixby Bridge Big Sur California

2.    Las Vegas

Next up The City of Sin, Las Vegas.

Everyone knows Las Vegas is a major destination with its incredible nightlife, fun entertainment, world class restaurants, and high-end shopping.

There’s so much more to do in Vegas besides the casinos !

If you’re planning to drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas it should take you just over four hours (270 miles) to get there.

But if you’re interested in enjoying the sights along the way there’s quite a bit to see.

Two easy stops along Las Vegas freeway are Mojave National Preserve and the Seven Magic Mountains .

READ MORE: 11 Best Day Trips from Las Vegas

Yes, that’s me hanging out with Las Vegas showgirls!

3.    Palm Springs

Palm Springs has always been a favorite among the rich and famous. But the truth is, this destination is one of the fun road trips from LA everyone can enjoy.

In less than a two-hour drive (107 miles) you can enjoy all of the amenities of this wonderful desert town .

Spas and resorts are ready to help you relax by soaking in hot springs and getting a full body massage. In downtown Palm Springs check out the antique stores, thrift shops, and unique boutiques on Palm Canyon Drive.

Also downtown, (grand opening on November 3, 2023) the Agua Caliente Cultural Plaza and Museum welcomes visitors to experience and learn about the culture, history, and traditions of the Agua Caliente people.

If you love the outdoors, Palm Springs has tons of hiking and biking trails. I highly recommend the ranger led interpretive hikes at Indian Canyons .

And when you want a unique experience you can ride the tram from the desert to the top of Mt San Jacinto for some cooler mountain air. Grab some lunch, hike the trails, or simply take in the panoramic views.

You can also explore the wonders of nature at Joshua Tree National Park , one of many cool day trips from Palm Springs .

September through April is the best time to visit Palm Springs.

READ MORE: 18 Fab Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs

Hike the Tahquitz Canyon in Palm Springs

4.    Phoenix

Phoenix is another fun road trip from LA where the destination has great nightlife, tons of things to do, and a restaurant scene to satisfy any foodie.

Taking I-10 East the road to Phoenix passes through Palm Springs and Joshua Tree National Park and takes about 5.5 hours to drive this stretch of 375 miles.

So instead of rushing to get to your final destination why not stop off and enjoy these wonderful destinations along the way there or on the way back to LA.

Taking a slightly longer route you can head up north on I-40 East which will go through the Mojave National Preserve and past Lake Havasu .

November through April is the best time of year to visit Phoenix.

READ MORE: 10 Best Free Things to Do in Phoenix

Camelback Mountain in Phoenix has fabulous hiking trails

5.    Bryce Canyon National Park

A definite must see, Bryce Canyon has some of the coolest land formations including red rocks, pink limestone cliffs, and the largest concentration of hoodoos in the entire world!

With spectacular sunrise and sunset viewing points and wonderful short scenic walking trails you’ll see why Bryce is such a magical place.

The eight-hour drive on I-15 North to Bryce Canyon doesn’t really seem that long if you consider all the places you can enjoy along the way.

Options for stops on the way to/from Bryce include Las Vegas, Valley of Fire State Park, and Zion National Park.

The best time of year to visit Bryce Canyon is spring or fall for fewer crowds and lovely weather. Summer is hotter and more crowded while winter is magical with the snow and fewer people. Just remember sometimes there are road closures during (and after) winter storms while plows clear the roads.

READ MORE: Bryce Canyon One Day Itinerary

Bryce National Park Utah

6.    Zion National Park

One of the most popular national parks in the entire country, Zion, has become a major destination that can’t be missed.

Lucky for us Zion is only about seven hours away and it’s one of the best road trips from LA for nature lovers.

Stay at Cliffrose Springdale (Curio Collection by Hilton) for an ideal location with gorgeous views and an onsite restaurant.

Before you hit up Angel’s Landing and The Narrows in Zion National Park enjoy the drive and all the many things to see and do along the way.

On this road trip from Los Angeles, it’s easy to make a stop at the Mojave National Preserve, Las Vegas, Red Rock Canyon, or Valley of Fire State Park.

And if you’re not into doing the challenging hikes at the park don’t worry there are plenty of easy hikes at Zion suitable for all types of hikers.

Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit Zion National Park. If you plan your trip for April to May or September to October you’ll most likely have pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer months are very hot (over 100 F) and winter months bring cold weather with increased possibility of rain and snow.

READ MORE: Best Things to Do in Zion National Park

Canyon View Trail at Zion National Park

7.    Havasupai (Arizona)

An absolutely unique experience for any avid hiker is to visit Havasupai and the blue and green waters of Havasu Falls.

Reaching the final destination tends to be quite difficult, so the road trip from LA may be the easiest part of all.

Located in the Havasupai Reservation, access is only granted to those with a permit and lodging reservation , which are hard to come by.

Then it’s a strenuous multi-day hike to/from the Havasu Falls but absolutely worth it.

The hiking season is from February through November but also remember that in summer months the trail may close due to extreme heat or flooding.

Best of luck if you have this one on your bucket list!

READ MORE: 12 Beautiful Places that Are Hot in February

8.    Death Valley National Park

Note: Death Valley National Park closed in August after Tropical Storm Hillary caused widespread damage, Death Valley partially reopened on Sunday October 15, 2023 but many roads are still closed check the NPS website for updates .

We’ve all heard of the famous Death Valley, which is why so many of us are curious to experience it firsthand.

One of the most popular road trips from Los Angeles, you’ll reach the park in just about 3.5 hours (315 miles).

Now this is not a destination for a summer road trip due to extreme heat, but with exceptional wildflower blooms in spring it’s a great place to visit.

It’s also on our list of best national parks to visit in winter .

And it’s one of the best places to stargaze as an International Dark Sky Park.

READ MORE: 12 National Parks Near Las Vegas

Death Valley National Park is best to visit during winter months

9.    Salton Sea + Salvation Mountain + Slab City

One of the most interesting road trips from Los Angeles includes Salton Sea, Salvation Mountain, and Slab City. This trip takes about 3 hours via I-10 East and then hang a right onto Hwy 111 at Indio.

The best time to do the LA to Salton Sea road trip is from October through May when the weather is more comfortable. June through September is too hot with potential of temps well above 100 degrees. I visited in December and it was perfect weather.

The Salton Sea was formed when spring flooding on the Colorado River in 1905 breached a canal and the water flowed in for about a year and a half.

With a state recreation area and National Wildlife Refuge it’s a great place to camp and enjoy the great outdoors. There’s some good birdwatching here too, I saw burrowing owls!

Thought of as the last place to live for free in the US, Slab City is home to squatters who have created makeshift homes on the slabs left from a WWII marine base.

Located at the entrance to Slab City you’ll know you’ve reached Salvation Mountain when you see it. This brightly colored hill is the work and devotion of Leonard Knight which took almost 30 years to create.

READ MORE: 18 Weekend Getaways from Las Vegas

Visit Salvation Mountain, Slab City, and Salton Sea for a unique road trip adventure

10.    San Francisco

One of the greatest road trips of all time has to be from Los Angeles to San Francisco .

Nowadays it’s easy to get from one big city to the next using fast forms of transportation but to truly enjoy the landscape of California you’ve got to consider going by car.

Driving straight on I-5 you can reach the city in about six hours. But traveling along the coast on the Pacific Coast Highway will take you through wonderful towns like Santa Barbara , Morro Bay, San Simeon, and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

READ MORE: 10 Best Free Things to Do in San Francisco

Golden Gate Bridge San Francisco

11.    Crater Lake National Park

Crater Lake National Park in Oregon is a great choice when you want to do a multi-day drive from Los Angeles and get out of Cali.

This 11-hour car ride doesn’t have to be done in one shot. Instead consider stopping to see the beautiful California landscape along the way in places like Fresno, Sacramento, and the Shasta-Trinity National Forest .

And not to worry, after this road trip, your final destination will be just as incredible as the journey to get there.

READ MORE: Portland to Oregon Coast Road Trip

12.    Portland + Columbia River Gorge

If you’re down for some of the coolest road trips from LA definitely consider heading up to Portland and the Columbia River Gorge.

This multi-day road trip will take you through the majestic California and Oregon landscapes.

Consider three different routes:

• I-5 will take you through major cities like Sacramento and Eugene
• US-395 N will take a bit longer, but you’ll be closer to major destinations like Yosemite and Lake Tahoe
• The last option is the Pacific Coast Highway then continue on Hwy 101 on the Oregon coast until Tillamook or Cannon Beach then head east to Portland. Yes, the longest of all but so worth it!

READ MORE: 3 Day Portland Oregon Itinerary

Columbia River Gorge is a beautiful road trip at the Oregon and Washington border

13.    Olympic National Park

Keep going north! If you’re headed up to the Portland area why not just keep going north to reach the amazing Olympic National Park.

Although it takes a few days to get there, it’s one of the most epic road trips from Los Angeles. Save this one for when you have at least a couple of weeks to enjoy the journey.

The fastest route is 1,123 miles but the most scenic route will take you along the PCH and continue along the Oregon and Washington coastlines on Hwy 101.

At this incredible national park, you’ll get to see it all: glaciers, old growth forest, beaches, and even lush rain forest. And the wildlife watching opportunities are great with deer, elk, black bears, and beavers to name a few.

July and August are the warmest (and busiest) months to visit Olympic National Park. For fewer crowds plan on visiting in May, June, or September. The rainy season starts around mid-October and continues through April.

READ MORE: Best Things to Do in Olympic National Park

Olympic National Park sunset at Rialto Beach

14.    Yosemite National Park

Major bucket list item, Yosemite National Park is one of the most magnificent places to visit in the US. Conveniently it’s one of the totally doable road trips from LA.

To get there quickly just head on I-5 North, which should take about 5 hours.

But if you’re interested in taking a little bit more of a scenic route, consider US-395 N instead. You’ll pass Death Valley National Park, Sequoia National Forest, through Inyo National Forest, and Mammoth Lakes.

At Yosemite plan for spectacular waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, and stunning mountain landscapes like El Capitan and Half Dome.

Plan to spend 3 to 5 days to see the highlights of Yosemite such as Yosemite Valley, Tioga Road, Tuolumne Meadows, Wawona and Tunnel View.

The best time to visit Yosemite is from May through September.

READ MORE: 15 Best Weekend Getaways in California

Take an epic road trip to Yosemite National Park

15.    San Diego

Visiting San Diego from LA is a no-brainer. You’ll reach this fun city to the south in just over 2 hours depending on traffic.

I-5 South will bring you along the Pacific Coastline through great towns like San Clemente and Del Mar.

Once you arrive, you’ll be living the SoCal life, watching surfers hang-ten, seeing the sea lions sunbathe, and eating the best fish tacos of your life.

Spring, summer, and fall are the best seasons for a trip to San Diego but avoid May Gray and June Gloom when skies are typically cloudy most days. Unless you’re into moody cloudy skies!

READ MORE: Best Things to Do in San Diego

San Diego sunset

16.    Joshua Tree National Park

There’s no denying that Joshua Tree National Park is a major destination for folks heading out on road trips from Los Angeles.

With only 130 miles that separates us from this majestic park, there’s really no reason not to go.

So, when you need an escape from the city, get into nature at Joshua Tree. Surround yourself with beautiful cacti, wildly charismatic Joshua trees, and maybe see some wildlife on the numerous hiking trails.

READ MORE: 25 Warm Places to Visit in December

Joshua Tree National Park California

17.    Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

A stellar road trip from LA is definitely Red Rock Canyon. This breathtaking landscape has over 30 miles of hiking trails, great rock climbing, a scenic 15 mile drive, and camping.

Remember to make a timed entry reservation if you plan to visit between October and May.

Located less than 20 miles from Las Vegas, you could plan a road trip that hits up both. That way you can balance glitz and glam with serenity and nature.

On the other hand, if you’re all about escaping the city lights then make reservations for camping at Red Rock Canyon in advance.

READ MORE: 15 Best Places to Travel in November

Take a road trip to the Red Rock Canyon near Las Vegas

18.    Santa Barbara

Located a short distance up the coast from LA, Santa Barbara is the perfect getaway and road trip from LA.

You’ll love its picturesque beaches and notable architecture with red tile rooftops. If you’re into surfing be sure to stop at Carpinteria and Rincon Beach Park for some epic waves.

The climate in Santa Barbara will make you feel like you’re on the Mediterranean coast. Nearby San Ynez Mountains offer tons of outdoor activities.

Santa Barbara is also a great place to do a bit of wine tasting as it’s home to over 200 wineries. You can do wine tastings in town but if you want the best experience this wine tasting tour to San Ynez Valley includes lunch and snacks along with visits to 3 wineries.

READ MORE: 10 Best Small Beach Towns in California

Hit the road to Santa Barbara for a change of scene

19.    Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park

Want to see the largest tree in the world? Then head to Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Park to see “General Sherman”.

Visiting these two sister parks, you’ll also be able to visit Mt. Whitney, the tallest mountain in the contiguous US.

Camping and lodging is pretty abundant in and around the parks, making it easy to spend a night (or several nights) after the three-to-five-hour drive from LA.

20.    Napa

The ideal getaway in California is seriously one of the best road trips from Los Angeles. Located just north of San Francisco, the direct drive will take at least 5.5 hours.

But who says you need to rush? Instead make a real trip out of it. Traveling up along the Pacific you’ll love the views and all of the small seaside towns, like Carmel-by-the-Sea along the way.

Besides wine tastings you can also experience Napa from above with this magnificent hot air balloon tour for the best view of the vineyards.

Napa Valley is an easy road trip from Los Angeles

21.    Sonoma Valley

Another fabulous destination just north of San Francisco, is the wonderful Sonoma Valley. A wine lover’s paradise, this is the place to come to sample some of California’s best wines.

Since the popular activities in Sonoma involve sampling the local wines, it’s all the more reason to make a real trip out of it.

Spend a couple of days enjoying the local wine and checking out the shops in historic downtown Sonoma. Foodies will love this walking, food, wine, and history tour with a local guide.

Sonoma Valley is one of the most fun road trips from Los Angeles especially if you drive along the Pacific Coast Highway.

22.    Antelope Canyon (Page Arizona)

We all know that magical photo of someone basking in sunlight as it streams into a gorgeous red canyon. Spoiler: It’s Antelope Canyon. And to get there it’s one of the best road trips from LA so you can stand in that same spot.

Now, to drive directly from the city it’s going to take you over eight hours. So, it’s recommended to make some stops along the way. Easy ones are Lake Havasu and Flagstaff if you take the I-40 route, or Las Vegas via I-15.

Remember that you’ll want to make a reservation in advance for the tours. For a chance to see the sunlight streaming down through the red sandstone book the Upper Antelope Canyon tour around midday. This is also the easiest tour because it’s basically flat with no stairs to climb and no ladders.

You can also tour Lower Antelope Canyon which is a bit more narrow and requires climbing a couple of staircases and some ladders inside the canyon.

I did both tours and I preferred the lower canyon because I felt it had more photo opportunities but both tours were fantastic, well organized, fun, and informative.

Read our list of best things to do in Page Arizona and make sure to put Horseshoe Bend on your must-do list too!

READ MORE: 7 Indian Ruins Near Flagstaff AZ

LA to Antelope Canyon in Page Arizona is a fabulous road trip

23.    Paso Robles

Interested in visiting wine country but not in the seriously long drive to Napa or Sonoma Valley? Consider Paso Robles.

In about three hours you’ll be sipping the latest vintage.

To visit a few wineries without driving you can book this wine tour so you can enjoy the vino and no worries about having to get behind the wheel.

Besides wine tasting in Paso Robles you can enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot springs, go horseback riding or take a hot air balloon ride.

Paso Robles is a great choice for a quick weekend getaway from Los Angeles.

24.    Grand Canyon National Park

Yet another one of our awesome life bucket list items is within a reasonable drive of Los Angeles. At just over 500 miles (around 8 hours away), the Grand Canyon is considered one of the top road trips from LA.

If it seems like a bit much to make the drive in one go, think about breaking it up with stops in Palm Springs , Joshua Tree National Park, Lake Havasu, Williams, or Flagstaff .

While at the Grand Canyon the first thing you’ll want to do is take in the majestic views from overlooks along the South Rim.

Hikers will want to spend some time on the trails. Rim Trail is an easy hike while Bright Angel and South Kaibab are steep hikes.

Other key attractions at the Grand Canyon South Rim include several buildings by the amazing architect Mary Colter including Desert View Watchtower, Hopi House, Lookout Studio, Hermits Rest, and Bright Angel Lodge.

Learn all about how the Grand Canyon was formed at the Yavapai Geology Museum. Here you’ll find great views of the canyon and a cool gift shop as well as informative displays including a large topographic relief map.

When you get hungry there are several hotel and lodge restaurants as well as casual cafes and snack bars.

Once you arrive at the South Rim you can utilize the free shuttle buses to get around so you don’t need to drive.

Whether you’re an avid hiker and plan to do the Rim-to-Rim Trail or simply want to enjoy the grandeur of nature a trip to the Grand Canyon from LA is one of those lifetime experiences you’ll want to plan ahead. Hotel rooms are often booked 13 months in advance so make sure you check hotel availability for your travel dates.

READ MORE: 17 Best Day Trips from Flagstaff AZ

Grand Canyon South Rim

25.    Redwood National (and State) Parks

There’s no better thing to do in California than see the Redwoods. Naturally occurring in the state, they are the tallest trees in the world.

But there’s no better place to see them than at Redwood National Park and State Parks .

Plan to spend a night on the way there. A couple of good options are Petaluma or Santa Rosa just north of San Francisco.

Although the drive will take over 11 hours even on the fastest route (but over 18 hours via PCH) , it’s one of the coolest road trips from LA.

As you travel north you can explore the beauty of the state along the Pacific Coast (much longer route but also much more scenic) or inland (fastest route) via interstate 5 and Hwy 101.

On the way there stop in Humboldt Redwoods State Park (north of Garberville) and drive the Avenue of the Giants , for 31 miles of coastal redwoods towering over the roadway.

Be sure to visit Prairie Creek Redwoods and drive Newton B. Drury Parkway. There are rustic cabins and campgrounds at the park.

Continuing north on Hwy 101 to Crescent City area (about 25 miles) you can also visit Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park for more hiking and scenic drives.

Final Thoughts on Road Trips from LA

There’s nothing like a great American road trip and this list has 25 of the best and most fun road trips from Los Angeles. It’s hard to believe there’s so many extraordinary choices within driving distance of this great city. With so many great places to see it’s easy to set your sights on a few road trips from LA. Remember it’s best to buy your park passes in advance and also make your lodging reservations as soon as you know your travel dates. Always check the road conditions and weather before and during your road trip. Have Fun!

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15 Underrated Places to Travel This Summer, From Kosovo to Quebec

By Jamie Spain

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Planning the perfect summer trip can take weeks of research, preparation, and organization to ensure it goes off without a hitch. But before you get to the planning and booking phase, you'll need to decide where to go. There's a seemingly endless amount of great options out there, and while there's nothing wrong with heading to the same familiar spot over and over again, sometimes you want to get a little off the beaten path and go somewhere you haven't been before. Whether you're in the mood for a nature escape with jaw-dropping vistas, hiking paths, and secluded lodges, or are looking for a big city excursion surrounded by trendy restaurants, unique neighborhoods, and great shopping, we've got ideas for you.

From islands to national parks , here are 15 underrated summer travel ideas, perfect for avoiding the crowds while you explore someplace new.

Domestic destinations:

Finger Lakes, New York | Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota | Isle Royale National Park, Michigan | Catalina Island, California | San Juan Islands, Washington | Crystal River, Florida

International destinations:

Kosovo | Budapest, Hungary | Copenhagen, Denmark | Buenos Aires, Argentina | Sardinia, Italy | Mauritius | Kyoto, Japan | Bora Bora | Quebec, Canada

Domestic destinations

Finger Lakes, New York

A fan-favorite of New York City residents, the New York Finger Lakes are unquestionably idyllic. The perfect destination for a summer weekend , or a weeklong trip with the family, this region is home to some of the most beautiful waterfronts. Dotted with adorable small towns , the 11 long, slender lakes that make up this area are exactly what East Coast summer dreams are made of. Spend your trip navigating nearby state parks; hiking, biking, and exploring; and enjoying everything that lake life has to offer, from jet-skiing to swimming.

Where to stay: Check out the Gould Hotel , a modern boutique property in Seneca Falls; book a night at The Lake House on Canandaigua for an airy, design-forward stay; or head east to the Inns of Aurora .

Voyageurs National Park, Minnesota

Completely immerse yourself in nature at Minnesota's Voyageurs National Park. This gorgeous destination is ideal for getting in some of the best stargazing you could ever imagine. Just like dozens of other national parks , this one has an International Dark Sky Park certificate, designating it as a location that is particularly good for viewing the night sky and stars. Unlike the others, however, Voyageurs is one of the least-visited national parks in the country, meaning you'll be able to truly connect with nature and enjoy seclusion. It's ideal for boat rides and swimming, as it's primarily made up of waterfronts and islands—almost 40 percent of the park is water.

Where to stay: Nearby Cantilever Hotel is great for those interested in exploring the park, but not wanting to stay too far away from civilization. Those who are a little more daring will enjoy the Kettle Falls Hotel , a property that is only accessible by boat or seaplane. If you're really looking to be one with nature, you can rent a canoe and camp at a tent site.

Isle Royale National Park, Michigan

If you're looking for a summer vacation where you can explore an area relatively untouched by civilization, look no further than Isle Royale National Park . A favorite of my family, this park is uniquely difficult to get to (the main island is best reached by ferry), so the only other travelers you'll find here are extreme adventurers and in-the-know locals. It's best to visit during the summer months since Lake Superior is quite cold and foggy throughout the rest of the year. My family heads to this park in the summer months in hopes of spending a few days backpacking , canoeing, and hiking through the near-untouched environment—admiring the nature and wildlife along the way.

Stacey Lastoe

Tonya Russell

Laura Kiniry

Nora Zelevansky

Where to stay: While the actual park is best experienced through camping, those who aren't interested in totally roughing it can stay at the Rock Harbor Lodge , centrally located on the main island. Or, book this nearby rustic Airbnb cabin with panoramic views of Lake Superior for the days leading up to your national park visit.

Catalina Island, California

Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Los Angeles , Santa Catalina Island is quite literally heaven on Earth. Hopeful travelers can either take the one-hour Catalina Express ferry over to the island (it departs daily from San Pedro, Long Beach, and Dana Point) or charter a private yacht to get them there in style. Whether you're looking to hike the Trans Catalina Trail or simply indulge in some tasty seafood while wandering through the quaint town of Avalon, Catalina Island is a great break from the hustle and bustle of LA. Head a bit farther inland to explore El Rancho Escondido , the acclaimed Arabian horse ranch that's also home to Rusack Vineyards.

Where to stay: For day-trippers or those who plan to extend their vacation to include a stay in Los Angeles, there are a variety of hotels and Airbnbs to choose from, including The Beverly Hills Hotel, Dorchester Collection , The Malibu Beach Inn , and the luxe Chateau Marmont Estate on Airbnb. If you're hoping to stay on-island, the plush Bellanca Hotel is the way to go.

San Juan Islands, Washington

A 2019 Readers' Choice Award winner, named one of the best islands for beautiful scenery, this collection of more than 400 islands off the coast of Washington is ideal for a Pacific Northwest weekend getaway. The three most popular (and largest) islands to explore are Orcas , San Juan, and Lopez—all easily accessible by ferry. Travelers can enjoy a laidback vacation with comfortable temperatures and a relaxed atmosphere: hop on a bike and explore the area; spend time sailing, hiking, and fishing; or take a walk to admire all of the islands' natural beauty, from the mountains to the lakes.

Where to stay: Glampers, campers, and regular hotel-goers will all adore the Lakedale which has accommodations for every type of traveler.

Crystal River, Florida

Home to one of the best beaches in Florida , Crystal River is unlike most other cities you'll find in the Sunshine State for one major reason: It's one of the only places in the world where people can swim alongside manatees . If you've ever wanted to truly get up close to these gentle giants, this is the city to visit. Head to the Crystal River National Wildlife Refuge to see your fill of the endangered animal, and spend some time taking in the natural beauty of the nearby springs and parks.

Where to stay: The Plantation Resort on Crystal River is home to a variety of different activities including a 27-hole championship golf course and a family-friendly resort with 196 accommodations.

International destinations

There's a reason Kosovo is on our list of the Best Places to Go in 2024, and it has everything to do with the jaw-dropping scenery that can be found in every corner of this country. Outdoorsy folks who want to spend their time hiking and biking through untainted valleys, mountains, and countryside will appreciate the chance to explore the newest European country. Travelers who who are looking for a taste of the young nation's history can head to the national museum; afterward, explore the streets of Prizren taking in the architecture as well as the historic mosques and churches.

Where to stay: Book a night at the Hotel Gracanica in the quiet suburb of Prishtina, or pamper yourself at the luxe Ujevara e Drinit Resort near Peja. For something a little more traditional, enjoy tasty Kosovo dishes as well as classic comforts at the rural Ariu Guesthouse . (Check out our guide on where to eat, play, and stay in Kosovo for even more recommendations.)

Budapest, Hungary

Skip Western Europe and instead head to the beautiful capital of Hungary . Luxuriate in the mineral-rich thermal baths you'll find around the city , or spend your days exploring the historic Castle District, walking along the Danube, and meandering through the city streets. You can even take a faux hot air balloon trip to enjoy the best view in the city. If you plan your trip for August, it may coincide with the Sziget Festival , one of the largest music and cultural festivals in all of Europe.

Where to stay: Book a night at 2024 Gold List winner, The Four Seasons Gresham Palace Budapest , or spend a few nights at the adults-only Hotel Clark Budapest . (Check out our guide on where to eat, play, and stay in Budapest for more recommendations.)

Copenhagen, Denmark

There's no better time to visit Copenhagen than during the summer months when the weather is warm, the days are exceptionally long, and the waterfront views are breathtaking. Aside from being ranked as one of the happiest countries in the world , sustainably-minded travelers will appreciate how eco-focused the place is, and enjoy a trip to CopenHill, the multi-use waste-to-energy plant with a ski slope, climbing wall, and cafe. It's also worth checking out the Tivoli Gardens, Rosenborg Castle, and the picturesque Nyhavn harbor .

Where to stay: Check out our favorite hotels in Copenhagen , including the grand and historic Hotel d'Angleterre , the Nimb Hotel which was originally built as a castle in 1909, and the modern Villa Copenhagen .

Buenos Aires, Argentina

From awe-inspiring museums to culture-packed tours to dance halls perfect for learning to tango , there's no shortage of amazing things to do and see in Buenos Aires . Whether you're spending the day simply walking the streets and taking in the sights; exploring the colorful La Boca; watching a soccer match; learning to tango; or going to the Colón Theatre to see the opera, this will be a trip to remember.

Where to stay: Some of our favorite hotels in Buenos Aires include the luxe Palacio Duhau ; the Jardín Escondido , once home to Francis Ford Coppola; and the Faena Hotel Buenos Aires located right by the water in Puerto Madero.

Sardinia, Italy

There's so much more to Sardinia than just a beautiful coastline and wonderful beaches. While the long, warm days are perfect to spend by the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea, travelers who want a little more substance to their vacation can head inland to experience the island's charming towns, rustic cuisine, and ancient ruins.

Where to stay: Rest your head at the Cascioni Eco Retreat , set on a 90-acre nature reserve with gorgeous views of the surrounding land. The colorful Su Gologone Experience Hotel is another great option, as is the luxurious, high-end Hotel Cali de Volpe .

Another location on our list of the Best Places to Go in 2024, Mauritius is about 1,200 miles east of Madagascar . From its gorgeous coastlines with pristine beaches to the luxury accommodations and unparalleled nature, this island destination is nothing short of paradise. Head here during the Northern Hemisphere's summer months to avoid wet season. Your main activities on Mauritius will be water-based, from diving and snorkeling to sitting on the beach and admiring the coastline. If you need a break from relaxing, take a trip to the Bel Ombre Nature Reserve, the Botanic Gardens, or the capital city of Port Louis.

Where to stay: Check out our favorite hotels in Mauritius , including the four-time Readers' Choice Award winner and two-time Gold List winner, One&Only Le Saint Géran . You can also book a stay at the legendary resort, Lux Belle Mare , or the kite-surfers' paradise of Riu Palace Mauritius .

Kyoto, Japan

Instead of heading to the mega-popular Tokyo or the bright and lively Osaka, consider touching down in Kyoto , one of the best cities to experience traditional Japanese culture. Spend the day exploring the temples and shrines that are dotted throughout the city; take a walk through Gion, the “Geisha District;” or while away a few hours in the Kyoto National Museum. The best times to visit Japan are at the very end or beginning of summer when the season overlaps with spring and fall, and while it'll certainly be a bit warmer during the peaks of summer, it's no less beautiful.

Where to stay: From the Ace Hotel to the Shinmonzen , there is no shortage of great hotels in Central Kyoto. If you're interested in something a little different, tour guide Sara Aiko from Traveler 's Ask a Local series recommends taking a trip to Moksa , a gorgeous property in the north of Kyoto surrounded by temples and nature.

Nothing says romance like staying in an overwater bungalow in Bora Bora. The winter in French Polynesia corresponds with the summer in the Northern Hemisphere, meaning June, July, and August experience less humid and more comfortable temperatures. This time period also falls during Tahiti 's dry season, so you don't have to worry about being rained out. You could easily spend your days simply lounging in your bungalow and slipping into the crystal waters whenever you feel, but Bora Bora is also ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and taking a boat or a 4x4 island tour.

Where to stay: Bora Bora is particularly known for its luxury overwater bungalows. Conrad Bora Bora Nui is a more private option with exceptional snorkeling and coral, The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort is perfect for honeymooners and families alike, and the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora is home to over 100 bungalows, fine dining, and an exceptional spa.

Quebec, Canada

When you think of summer travel, your first thought is probably an island getaway or a far-flung destination that you've only read about in books. But, don't overlook all of the beauty that our northern neighbor has to offer. Quebec City is home to all the same type of charm you'll find in Europe but without the exceptionally long flight to get there. Spend some time in Old Quebec City —home to some of the oldest streets in North America—taking in the history and culture that make this city worthy of its title as a UNESCO World Heritage Site . Or, head to Montreal , where you can enjoy a variety of museums, the open-air market, and great culinary options. Don't forget to explore the nature and French architecture found in the greater province.

Where to stay: For a wonderful stay in Quebec City, Hotel 71 is a six-time Readers' Choice Award winner while Auberge Saint Antoine Quebec City and Le Germain Hotel Quebec are both five-time winners. For a wellness-focused retreat , head to Monastère des Augustines . In Montreal , check out the Auberge du Vieux-Port on the St. Lawrence River, or Hotel William Gray in Old Montreal.

Flights to Miami for less than $100? Cheap airline tickets to nab this Spring and Summer

Sometimes you just need to get away.

This spring and summer, there are a plethora of destinations with affordable roundtrip airfare, from bustling cities to sun-soaked beach paradises – both domestic and abroad. Think Puerto Rico, Ireland or Las Vegas.  

Travelers should start looking at prices at least three to four months in advance for domestic trips, and the best prices generally will be one to two months before the departure date, according to travel app Hopper.

International trips require more planning, with flights to Asia and Oceania booked between five and seven months in advance. However, people going to Europe or elsewhere can wait until three and six months for the lowest rates.

As always, flexibility allows for better deals. Flying on a Tuesday or Wednesday could save travelers up to 30% compared to a weekend trip, Hopper said. 

Learn more: Best travel insurance

According to data from fellow travel platform Kayak, the most popular U.S. cities for travelers to depart from between March and September are New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston and Washington, D.C. 

Travel platforms Hopper, Kayak and Expedia shared with USA TODAY the destinations with the cheapest roundtrip airfare this spring and summer from the most popular U.S. cities. 

This Florida airport had the most delays The best, worst airports for spring break travel

The cheapest flights, according to Hopper

The best spring deals

• Depart New York to Tampa for as low as $157.
• Depart New York to Ponce, Puerto Rico, for as low as $129.
• Depart New York to Charleston, South Carolina, for as low as $50.
• Depart Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for as low as $140.
• Depart Los Angeles to Salt Lake City for as low as $90.
• Depart Boston to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, for as low as $72.
• Depart Boston to San Juan, Puerto Rico, for as low as $173.
• Depart Chicago to Miami for as low as $66.
• Depart Chicago to Cancun, Mexico, for as low as $194.

The best summer deals

• Depart New York to Oranjestad, Aruba, for as low as $257.
• Depart New York to Nassau, the Bahamas, for as low as $239. 
• Depart Los Angeles to San Juan, Puerto Rico for as low as $380.
• Depart Los Angeles to Denver for as low as $110.
• Depart Boston to Orlando, Florida, for as low as $170.
• Depart Boston to Cancun, Mexico, for as low as $165.
• Depart Chicago to Denver for as low as $96. 
• Depart Chicago to Bogota, Colombia, for as low as $356.

The cheapest flights, according to Kayak 

The best deals between March and September:

• Depart New York to Atlanta for $215 on average.
• Depart New York to Charlotte, North Carolina, for $237 on average.
• Depart Boston to Philadelphia for $155 on average.
• Depart Boston to Washington, D.C., for $222 on average.
• Depart Washington, D.C., to Atlanta for $207 on average.
• Depart Washington, D.C., to Boston for $210 on average.
• Depart Denver to Phoenix for $191 on average.
• Depart Denver to Chicago for $194 on average.

The cheapest flights, according to Expedia

The best spring deals:

• Depart New York to Detroit for $133 on average.
• Depart New York to Atlanta for $174 on average.
• Depart Los Angeles to Las Vegas for $85 on average.
• Depart Los Angeles to Phoenix for $179 on average.
• Depart San Francisco to Phoenix for $129 on average.
• Depart San Francisco to Seattle for $198 on average.
• Depart Atlanta to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, for $132 on average.
• Depart Atlanta to Tampa, Florida, for $143 on average.

The best summer deals:

• Depart New York to Chicago for $200 on average.
• Depart New York to Tampa for $300 on average.
• Depart Los Angeles to San Francisco for $100 on average.
• Depart Los Angeles to Las Vegas for $100 on average.
• Depart San Francisco to Las Vegas for $100 on average.
• Depart San Francisco to San Diego for $150 on average.
• Depart Atlanta to Chicago for $150 on average.
• Depart Atlanta to Houston for $200 on average.

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

Ready to hit the road for spring break? Gas prices in L.A. County are now topping $5 a gallon

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If you’re hitting the road for a spring break trip, be prepared to pay more at the pump.

As of Sunday, the California national average for a gallon of regular gas is $4.986, up about eight cents from last week and an increase of nearly 35 cents compared with the average a month ago, according to the American Automobile Assn.

Drivers in Los Angeles County are facing even higher prices, with an average of $5.035. Across Southern California, Ventura County’s average is slightly higher at $5.051, with San Bernardino County drivers and Orange County drivers seeing average prices of slightly less than $5 a gallon.

What’s contributing to these higher prices? Crude oil prices typically rise at this time of year and have reached prices of more than $80 per barrel, which filters down to the retail level where drivers buy their gas, said Doug Shupe, Auto Club spokesman. There’s also increased demand from drivers, who are increasingly getting out of town to enjoy spring break.

“When you have so many people filling up … you’re going to have upward pressure on the pump prices, and that’s what we’re seeing now at the pumps,” he said.

For the record:

4:35 p.m. March 26, 2024 A previous version of this article reported that California had not yet switched to the more expensive summer blend of gas. Summer blend gas is already on the market.

California has already switched over to its summer blend of gas, which is typically 15 cents more expensive per gallon than the winter blend, Shupe said. The summer blend is more costly because it is specifically made to be harder to evaporate in higher temperatures, which is more expensive to produce, he said. Those higher costs are already baked into the current prices, according to AAA.

California typically has higher gas prices than most of the nation because of the special environmental blends it uses, as well as higher gas taxes in the state. The national average for a gallon of gas is $3.533, according to AAA.

More to Read

Letters to the Editor: Gas prices are up in California. It isn’t just greedy oil companies’ fault

March 21, 2024

Editorial: What’s behind California’s high gas prices? Don’t trust the oil industry for answers

March 18, 2024

Gas prices continue to drop across the U.S., but Californians still have to pay more

Oct. 12, 2023

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Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce spotted on lunch date in LA after returning home from Bahamas vacation

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They’re so gorgeous.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce were pictured enjoying a lunch date in Los Angeles on Sunday.

After  returning home from their romantic Bahamas getaway , the “Cruel Summer” singer and the Kansas City Chiefs tight end grabbed a bite to eat at Nobu in Malibu.

oh hey taylor and travis pic.twitter.com/AIa2cAoccM — lua⸆⸉ (@torturedswift13) March 25, 2024

Swift and Kelce, both 34, arrived at the restaurant separately, but fans were quick to snap photos of them as they walked into the establishment.

“Not that you can tell from this photo, but [Taylor] is SO TALL and so gorgeous up close and in person,” one fan wrote on X (formerly known as Twitter) while sharing an image of Swift ‘s entrance.

Just moments later, Kelce followed behind and the fan took another photo .

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In another set of photos taken by X user @girlandvodka , Swift could be seen wearing what appeared to be a light blue sweater and sunglasses for the outdoor date with her boyfriend.

Kelce rocked a tan sweater and white hat, which he removed after sitting down at their table on the patio.

One day before their lunch date in LA, Kelce was spotted in his hometown of Cleveland, Ohio.

He made a pit stop at the Pizzeria Geraci’s Slice Shop on Saturday and the pizza shop  took to Instagram  to share a snap of the NFL player inside.

Wearing sunglasses and a baseball cap, Kelce placed his hands in the pockets of his hoodie as he smiled for the camera.

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“When NFL star and Heights legend @killatrav swings by Geraci’s Slice Shop, you know it’s going to be a touchdown-worthy slice!” the pizzeria captioned the snap. “Next time bring Taylor 😉 🏈🍕.”

Kelce also posed for a picture with dancer Morgan Gilbert on Friday. They seemingly ran into each other on the streets, so Kelce was in Ohio for a few days before reuniting with Swift on the west coast.

Prior to his time in Ohio, Kelce was enjoying a tropical getaway with his girlfriend.

On March 18, Kelce and the “Bad Blood” singer were pictured holding hands on some docks,  per images posted by gossip blog Deuxmoi .

One day later,  Us Weekly reported  the couple was in the Bahamas.

The “Lover” songstress is currently  taking a scheduled break from her Eras Tour  and Kelce is in his offseason.

They certainly appear to be enjoying their time together, and if things continue to go well for the couple, he and Swift may be getting engaged soon.

Kelce  fueled engagement rumors on the latest episode of his “New Heights” podcast while talking to his co-host and brother, Jason Kelce, about lab-grown diamonds.

“Can’t wait til I f–kin’ make one,” he said, hinting at a potential future proposal.

Sources previously told Page Six that Swift and Kelce are  planning to get engaged  this summer around the time of their one-year anniversary .

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The vintage train renaissance is here — and it’s fabulous.

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The romance of pan-European train travel is nothing new. But a few high-profile redesigns in Italy have captured the imaginations of the globetrotting glitterati. Vintage slow trains are now the most elegant way to travel through Italy.

La Dolce Vita Orient Express. Itineraries are available to book starting in April.

La Dolce Vita . The phrase conjures many things, not least the iconic black and white images of vintage convertible cars, shiny black sunglasses, glamorous starlets and hustling cads named Marcello — all unforgettably captured in Federico Fellini's iconic Italian film evoking a special time and place.

The years from 1958 to 1963 were known as Italy's ‘economic miracle,’ an era characterized by vibrant artistic expression (the films! the fashion!) and industrial innovation (the cars! the typewriters!). At that time, the country enjoyed practically full employment, and investment reached 27% of GDP. It was very short, but very sweet. And state railways became a vehicle to valorise it.

Even now, it’s impossible to look at Italy’s throwback trains in a non-cinematic way. The new class of slow trains is ushering in a (relatively) sustainable travel revival, cosseting passengers in sumptuous cabins, celebrating 1960s décor and the Italian design legends of that time, like Gio Ponti, Giulio Minoletti and Gae Aulenti.

A suite on the La Dolce Vita Orient Express.

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La Dolce Vita Orient Express just announced its opening dates at the Duco travel summit in Milan in March, complete with an unveiling of a mock cabin of the long-awaited train designed by Milanese masters Dimore studio . The project is a joint venture of French hotel giant Accor and real-estate investment company Arsenale. This being Italy, they also had to obtain support from the non-profit Fondazione FS Italiane and Trenitalia, a subsidiary of Gruppo Ferrovie dello Stato , Italy's state-owned railway holding company.

The result is an inspired mash-up of high-end hospitality, design, mobility and travel. And it’s already going gangbusters. Since pre-sales opened in December 2022, 400 cabins have been booked. Offering nine separate multi-night journeys, including such glamorous locales as Venice, Portofino, Siena, and Sicily, the train comprises 12 deluxe cabins and 18 suites, with prices starting at $3,800 per person for a deluxe cabin and at $5,100 per person for a suite. Itineraries are available to book starting in April.

The Venice Simplon Orient Express will open new routes in June 2024.

Notably, Accor’s swanky new train comes years after the hotel company Belmond, acquired by LVMH in 2019, unveiled its Venice Simplon Orient Express (VSOE) service from London to Venice. With its own resident bar car pianist and East-meets-West soirées, the Venice Simplon has been the talk of travel town since it launched in 2021.

Beginning in June, Belmond is offering a new coastal journey from Paris to the Italian Riviera with the last stop in Portofino. Not to be outdone, the menus on board are curated by celebrity chef Jean Imbert (you know, the guy who took over for Alain Ducasse at the Plaza Athenée in Paris). Imbert is actually slated to be on board this train and prepare a tasting menu for guests in La Terrazza restaurant at the Splendido, a Belmond Hotel. Aperitivo, anyone?

Venice Simplon Orient Express makes a sartorial statement.

All Aboard the Arlecchino

The Arlecchino, or ‘harlequin,’ refers to the comic character from early the commedia dell'arte Italian theater, now reborn as a made-in-Italy, mid century time capsule shaped like a bullet in red, green and white. Originally designed by architect Gio Ponti, its service debuted in 1960 for the Rome Olympics. The idea was to help shuttle international visitors in style, just as Italy felt the heat of the world’s spotlight.

Something over-the-top was needed, so a novel idea formed: why not put the driver on the roof? It was a great engineering and design challenge at the time, but it worked, and today the Arlecchino’s driver still sits in an aerodynamic cabin on the roof allowing the front and rear of the train to become panoramic viewing galleries for passengers. In 2016, the non-profit Fondazione FS Italiane began the years-long work of restoring the train, and updating it with 21st century comforts like wifi and modern electricity. It is now available for private charters .

On a recent trip from Rome to Perugia, Bernabò Bocca, President of Sina Hotels and President of Federalberghi, the Italian national hotelier association, extolled the virtues of slow train travel: “This is a very important anniversary. We’re celebrating 150 years of history for Sina Bernini Bristol (Rome) and 140 years for Sina Brufani (Perugia). So we organized an historical train between these two destinations, which is really a wonderful way to experience the countryside of Italy. When tourists come to Italy they look for something typical Italian, and this is typical Italian.”

The Arlecchino train was built in 1960 for the Rome Olympics.

The Next Stop

For the first time in a very long time, these glamorous time capsules will cover more ground. Since 2013, the Fondazione FS Italiane has been working to recover 700 kilometers of disused tracks, and has successfully reclaimed 12 routes across the country. This means more options for cost-conscious daytrippers. For instance, in June, another scenic slow train is about to run from Milano Centrale station to Monterosso, the largest town in the Cinque Terre region. The ride lasts approximately three hours. Just think, in the morning, you’re immersed in the caffeinated bustle of Milan, and by afternoon, you can be hiking the famous trails of Cinque Terre — for the ticket price of $32. Sure, you may not be served fine cuisine or sleep on Frette linens, but you’re also more likely to be riding with Italian locals.

If you’re wondering why this is happening now, it really comes down to basic supply and demand. The heritage train revival goes well beyond pride-of-Italy government funding. When Belmond / LVMH saw revenues start to soar in 2021, the industry took note. Private equity firms also played a significant role post-pandemic, when buying of distressed assets (European hotels and resorts) peaked in the first quarter of 2021, according to S&P Global . Now, amid the post-pandemic travel boom, leading luxury hotel groups are fiercely competing to drive traffic to their owned properties. If the train model works, it’s full steam ahead!

It’s no coincidence that the train revival has its roots in Italy. There’s really nothing like La Dolce Vita . She is beautiful, and her mythology continues to enchant us in a kind of trance, on a slow train fantasy we know won’t last forever.

Dining on the Venice Simplon Orient Express (VSOE)

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March 2024 ENSO update: award season

El Niño—the warm phase of ENSO, which is short for El Niño-Southern Oscillation—is still hanging on in the tropical Pacific, but signs are pointing to a quick transition to neutral conditions by the April–June period. There’s a 62% chance of La Niña getting the golden ticket by June–August. Stay tuned, because La Niña affects global climate patterns, including the Atlantic hurricane season and North American winter.

The sea surface temperature in the Niño-3.4 region of the tropical Pacific (our primary ENSO-monitoring region) was 1.6 °C (2.9 °F) above the long-term average (long-term = 1991–2020) in February, according to our most reliable dataset, ERSSTv5 . This is still comfortably above the El Niño threshold (0.5 °C above the long-term average), although clearly off the peak from late last year.

2-year history of sea surface temperatures in the Niño-3.4 region of the tropical Pacific for all strong El Niño events since 1950 (gray lines) and the current event (purple line). NOAA Climate.gov image based on a graph by Emily Becker and monthly Niño-3.4 index data  from CPC  using  ERSSTv5 .

For your consideration

We monitor the temperature of the water under the surface of the Pacific, roughly the top 300 meters (~1000 feet), for signs of what’s to come. This subsurface water has been warmer than average for the past year, feeding El Niño’s warm surface water. However, the subsurface warmth peaked in November, and has been gradually waning over the past few months, becoming cooler-than-average in February. An upwelling Kelvin wave —a blob of cooler-than-average water that sloshes from the west to the east under the surface—developed in January, strengthening and rising toward the surface through February . In fact, a small region of cooler-than-average surface water developed over the past week or so, which you can see in the NOAAView Data Exploration Tool .

This change in the subsurface adds to our confidence that El Niño will continue weakening. Most of our computer climate models predict that neutral conditions will develop by April–June, and forecasters estimate an 83% chance of this.

NOAA Climate Prediction Center forecast for each of the three possible ENSO categories for the next 8 overlapping 3-month seasons. Blue bars show the chances of La Niña, gray bars the chances for neutral, and red bars the chances for El Niño. Graph by Michelle L'Heureux.

There’s a 62% chance that La Niña will arrive by June–August, but there’s also about a 1-in-3 chance it will develop even earlier, by May­–July. La Niña following close on the heels of a strong El Niño is fairly common, occurring after 5 of the 8 strong El Niño events in our historical record (starting in 1950—Tom has more details about the numbers in his post last month .)

One theory about why this El Niño-La Niña handoff occurs is called the “recharge-discharge oscillator.” Heat builds up in the tropical Pacific during El Niño, raising the local sea level in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific. This gets uncomfortable for Nature, and to get back to normal conditions, ocean currents move the heat away from the equator, and cooler water from deeper levels rises up—sometimes, enough cool water to swing into La Niña. There’s a lot more to this mechanism than I’ve covered here, so for more details check out Michelle’s excellent post “ the life and death of El Niño .”

While ENSO calls the tropical Pacific home, its reach is global. In the likely event that La Niña develops, it will affect global temperature and rain/snow patterns just as El Niño did this past winter (more on that in a minute!). These impacts are never guaranteed, but ENSO tilts the odds toward specific patterns, giving us an early picture of potential upcoming conditions.  

Temperature and precipitation patterns that are typical of La Niña during (top) Northern Hemisphere winters and (bottom) summers. Map by NOAA Climate.gov, based on originals from the Climate Prediction Center. Larger images and maps for El Niño are available in this post.

La Niña can also be a supporting character in the Atlantic hurricane season. In a nutshell, La Niña tends to reduce wind shear—the change in wind between the surface and high up the atmosphere. Less wind shear can make it easier for hurricanes to strengthen. NOAA’s hurricane outlook comes out in May, so we’ll know more then about how La Niña, ocean temperatures, and other factors are likely to affect hurricane activity this season.

In memoriam

Nat will delve into how U.S. precipitation played out this past winter in his post later this month, so I’ll just briefly touch on one very notable feature of this winter’s temperature pattern here—the warmest winter on record for the Great Lakes and Upper Midwest, causing historically low ice levels in the Great Lakes. El Niño influences winter temperature, so can we blame this on El Niño? Not so fast!

Yearly maximum ice concentration in the Great Lakes showing the influence of El Niño on ice cover. Most moderate or stronger El Niño years (red bars) were below the 1973-2024 average (black line). Other years, including La Niña, neutral, and weak El Niño, are blue. Data for 2024 are preliminary. Image by climate.gov from NOAA's Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory data.

Brian Brettschneider, climate expert and Friend-of-the-Blog , took a look at how often winter temperature was above average during past strong El Niños. Overall, we could say around 2-in-3 El Niño winters in the Great Lakes were warmer than average (see footnote). So far, so El Niño.

The colors show the  frequency  of cold or warm winters during the 11 strong El Niños that occurred from 1940-2023. Places where more than half (6 or more) the El Niño winters were warmer than average by any amount are colored red. (Whether a winter was above- or below-average was based on comparison with a 30-year rolling average centered on the winter in question.) Places where more than half the El Niño winters were cooler than average by any amount are colored blue. Most of the Great Lakes region is colored red, meaning that warmer-than-average winters were more common than cooler-than-average winters. NOAA Climate.gov map, based on analysis of ERA5 data by Brian Brettschneider.

There is a lot of variety in those winters, as we can see when we look at each one individually.

U.S. temperature patterns during the top 20 strongest El Niño winters from 1950-2015/16, arranged from strongest to weakest from top left to lower right. Places where the winter was warmer than the 1981-2010 average are red. Places where winter was cooler than average are blue. All events are somewhat different. In addition, because winters across the U.S. are getting warmer overall, using the 1981-2010 average for comparison can make cold anomalies during early events look especially cold, while warm anomalies may seem rather weak. NOAA Climate.gov maps, based on NOAA climate division data. 

While El Niño and its extended Pacific jet stream likely played a role in keeping much of North America abnormally warm, it’s very likely that climate change was also at work here. A few lines in an ENSO Blog post is not enough to attribute what part of the record warmth was El Niño, what part climate change, and what part other factors, including our old friend random variability . As the band is playing me off the stage, though, I can leave you with this picture from Brian, where he’s subtracted the average El Niño impact, based on previous El Niño events, from the 2023–24 winter. As you can see, there is a lot of warmth left on the table that is not consistent with your average past El Niño.

Map showing the difference between the temperature this past winter, 2023-24, and an average El Nino winter. Note that the temperature departure from average was much higher than during an average El Nino. Map by Brian Brettschneider.

Thanks for tuning in! Coming up on the ENSO Blog, we have Nat’s sequel, your regularly scheduled forecast updates, and plenty more as we roll into our second decade.

Whether a winter was above- or below-average was based on comparison with a 30-year rolling average centered on the winter in question. These maps are based on the “ERA5” reanalysis from the European Center on Medium-range Weather Forecasting, which covers the global climate from January 1940 to the present. A  reanalysis  is when scientists use a climate model to fill in gaps in past observations. Many observational records are incomplete, due to stations moving, being discontinued, or missing data. Using a climate model, we can connect the dots between missing data and create a continuous record of the past climate. Reanalysis is an invaluable, widely used technique.

Add new comment

Comment and question.

Excellent article, but it's still a La Nina watch for 2024 /25. Not carved in stone just yet. We could have a weak El Nino for next winter, or a very weak La Nina, or maybe ENSO / neutral.

Comparing the El Nino event of 2016 with this years El Nino event is like night and day. The event in 2016 had a very strong impact on the Ohio valley, and the 2023 / 24 El Nino event had minimum impact.

Question : The 2016 El Nino event started in a very positive PDO. The 2023 / 24 event started in a negative PDO. I always learned and witness that the El Nino's in past years ( the ones listed in the article ) always started in a positive PDO. This is a major change in the climate, an El Nino starting and dying in a negative PDO. Could this be due to the long solar cycle we have been in the last several years ? The Sun is the major driver of our climate, not Man. Your thoughts please.

Thank you in advance,

Stephen S.  

You have better odds of winning Powerball next year than experiencing another El Nino year. Not going to happen.

I am merely a weather enthusiast rather than a meteorologist, so bear with me:

1. From what I have read, there are a number of factors that affect what the winter will be like.  Whatever state ENSO is in is just one.

As an example, I remember reading in Fall 2002 how there was supposed to be an El Nino, so I figured that the area I was in at the time (south central Missouri) would have a mild winter.  Instead, it was genuinely cold.  As another example, the winter of 2022-23 had a La Nina, yet eastern Oklahoma (where I live) was a bit wetter than normal, even though it should have been warmer and drier than normal, based on how La Nina normally affects climate of this area.  Meanwhile, this area has had a drier than normal winter this year, even with an El Nino that would normally raise the odds of having a wetter winter than normal.  So, I think the most that can be said about whatever state ENSO is in is that it merely increases the probability of the winter being a certain way, rather than it definitely making the weather act one way or another.

2. From what the meteorologists who keep this blog have told me, a big reason why they are forecasting a La Nina to start later this year is because we had a strong El Nino this past winter, and because, whenever those happen, they are often followed by a La Nina.  There is a chance that something else could happen, plus, from what the atmospheric scientists keeping this blog have written in the past, springtime tends to make forecasting future ENSO states harder.  But, the historical record increases confidence in the forecast for La Nina to develop later this year.

3. I don't know anything about a connection between PDO and El Nino.  So, would you explain this further? 

4. It is true that the sun is the biggest driver of this planet's climate and weather.  In fact, if it were not for the sun, Earth would literally not exist.

It is also true that there are other factors, such as the Moon, how long days last, the oceans, the continents and where they are, mountain ranges and plateaus and where they are, the fact that the Earth is tilted on its axis (as well as how it wobbles very slowly), and the atmosphere along with gases that compose it, among others.

That said, there are some atmospheric gases that store heat, two of which are water vapor and carbon dioxide. (This was discovered in the 19th century.) It was later learned that increasing concentrations of these gases would increase the temperature.  And, since the age of industrialization began in the 19th century, human society has been burning fossil fuels (including oil and coal), which has resulted in continually adding carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.  We are continuing to do so, so carbon dioxide concentrations continue to go up. 

This has resulted in temperatures worldwide gradually increasing for over a century, which has affected climate worldwide in different ways.  Here in eastern Oklahoma, for instance, summer has gradually gotten longer, and now routinely continues through most of September, when it used to end around Labor Day (even as recently as 20 years ago).  Likewise, winter here has grown milder overall.  In Korea, where I lived for 6 years, it has made summers hotter (to the point where they now regularly get the extreme summer humidity that is common in places like Hong Kong but which was rare in Korea 20 years ago).  I have no doubt that it is affecting the Ohio Valley as well.  There are many other effects of this, which NOAA's many highly qualified atmospheric scientists could tell you about, in detail.  

Now, is human-caused global warming the only factor affecting the climate?  Absolutely not: As I wrote above, there are a lot of others, plus climate change is never the sole factor affecting climate and weather.  To put this another way, while it is a factor, it is not the factor.

So, as they wrote in this post, global warming was a factor in why this past winter was so warm, but it was not the only one.  

Though I am merely a weather enthusiast, I have read a fair amount about weather and climate over the years, so I figured I would use it to address the points you brought up.

Canadian Drought - Potential Wildfires

The last graphic shows extensive departures from normal over Central and Eastern Canada.  Looking at Environment Canada's Drought monitor those regions are also having drought conditions.  Unfortunately, I cannot find last year's precipitation anomalies and drought monitor and to determine their relationship with last year's wild fires.  If conditions this year will be similar to conditions last year, I am wondering if a high probability of Eastern Canadian wildfires will exist.  I know this out of the realm of the ENSO blog, but it might be a good discussion topic.

Thanks, Craig! That's a…

Thanks, Craig! That's a great idea for an upcoming blog post. 

Wow I am very interested in what's going on here ...

1997-98 El Nino analog

It would be interesting to follow the 2024 March, April, May temperature departure as compared with the 1998 temperature departure, given the close approximation of the past winter's similarity to Winter 1997-98. 

Agreed! Great idea.

El Nino Impacts in Malaysia

Hi all. After reading the blogs since the announcement of El Nino which also coincided with one of the strongest positive Indian Ocean Dipole in June last year, I am anticipating for drier and warmer than normal weather conditions to occur as these are the typical impacts of co-occurrence of El Nino and positive Indian Ocean Dipole towards Malaysia or Maritime Continent as a whole. However, when I read the sub-seasonal monthly weather reviews since June 2023 until January 2024 issued by the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC), I noticed that the rainfall anomalies in Malaysia is either near or above average throughout this period (only September and October showed below average rainfall anomalies for most part of the country) and in fact, Malaysia even experienced prolonged heavy rainfall that leads to big floods in November and December 2023. I also noticed that it rained a bit more frequent where I live (near Kuala Lumpur, west coast of Peninsular Malaysia), the same way it rained during the triple dip La Nina we had recently but it was hot even though it rained frequently. The temperature has been unbearably hot during the day and warm at night since late February. So my question is does these two climate variability phenomenon give minimal impacts to Malaysia in terms of rainfall distribution when they are at a strong level or does this caused by the unprecedented warming of SST around the globe including in the Malaysian waters?

Amirul Hakimi,

a young Malaysian meteorologist in the making.

Thanks for reporting in!…

Thanks for reporting in! Looking at the large-scale precipitation maps , it appears that much of the region was drier than average, but Malaysia itself, as you pointed out, ended up near or above average several months. I suspect this is an example of the unpredictable internal variability, where the big signal (El Nino and +IOD lead to generally drier than average conditions) is predictable, but the smaller-scale activity can end up dominating. There may also be an element of climate change at work, but that will take time to attribute. Keep us posted if you do some of your own analysis of the complex climate in Malaysia.

El Nino Discharge

Would this El Nino discharge process - in particular the ocean currents that are moving that heat poleward away from the equator - subsequently affect moisture/precipitation at higher latitudes? I ask because here in western Washington state, our two "wettest" summers in the last ten years (2016/2019) came on the heels of an El Nino winter that had died out over the spring/summer. Yes, that is only two data points, but just wondering if it is part of a larger pattern. A quick lit review turned up some papers on El Nino decay impacts on precipitation in Asia, but nothing for North America. I do prescribed fire in the summers, and even the smallest rain events can impact our fire effects, so I am trying to determine if we may have a chance of seeing something similar this year as this El Nino dies. Thank you!

Hi Kathryn, Thanks for this…

Hi Kathryn,

Thanks for this question. I found one paper on North American teleconnection impacts during El Nino-La Nina transition,  https://journals.ametsoc.org/view/journals/clim/34/9/JCLI-D-20-0761.1.x… , that describes teleconnection patterns that are due to the specific tropical sea surface changes during the El Nino-La Nina transition... maybe another blog post idea!

PDO and ENSO

ENSO / El Nino's, as I've always learned start in a positive Pacific Decadal Oscillation ( PDO, ) whether weak, strong, are very strong. This year's strong El Nino started in a negative PDO, and is now dying in a negative PDO. I just wanted to know why, and has this ever occurred before ??

ENSO and PDO

I don't have the answers to your questions at the moment - it would take a little digging. Based on this previous work (Fig. 3), the peak correlation between ENSO and the PDO is between 0.6 and 0.7, so it does leave a considerable amount of PDO variability (>50%) that is independent of ENSO. Still, I would think this winter's situation is unusual, but global sea surface temperatures in general have been very unusual over the past year. 

El Niño is ruining Wisconsin winter

I want La Niña back  El Niño is evil 

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