Best Time to Visit Los Angeles

Los Angeles is one of those American cities that is brimming with tourists all year round. Thanks to the Pacific Ocean and the city’s coastal seat, the location is blessed with perennial sunshine all year round. Still, L.A. has a lot more to offer than just that. From only-in-L.A. attractions and fabled natural wonders to its unrivalled drinking and dining scene, the city never falls short of great things to see and do. Whether you’re an artsy type, an outdoor enthusiast or a foodie, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest any time of the year. So, when is the best time to visit La La Land? From exciting events to great prices on accommodation, here’s a month-by-month breakdown of when to visit Los Angeles. Pick your favorite time of the year and head over to this magical West Coast city, STAT!

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September-November

Though you might not expect it, autumn is a fantastic time to visit Los Angeles. We especially like September - November, since it offers a lot of the perks of a summertime getaway, just with less of the fuss. During this time of the year, you’ll find that the air is more breathable and the crowds are less oppressive. This makes it perfect for exploring all of the city’s best outdoor attractions in comfort. Although it’s still warm around this time of the year, we still recommend bringing an umbrella or a light jacket, since rainfall intensifies towards the end of November. You’ll also find that the crowds are less oppressive and the lines are shorter during this time of the year since schools are back and families are less likely to visit. Since this is a less popular time for booking, you’ll be able to get a lot of great deals on flights and accommodation.

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December

Whilst L.A. probably isn’t the first place you might think of for a wintertime getaway, we’re here to tell you that a seasonal stay in the City of Angels is just so right. Why, you might ask? Well, for starters, when you travel to the West Coast in the wintertime the weather is temperate and balmy still without ever soaring into the high-80s. This means that you’ll be able to explore all of the city’s incredible attractions and points of interest just as you normally would. Of course, the atmosphere in L.A. around this time of the year remains unmatched. As with any major metropolitan city, L.A. is bustling with life around the holiday season, and you can most certainly feel the excitement. During the month of December you’ll also be able to find tonnes of magical activities and pop-up festive events around town. Some of our favorites include the Marina Del Rey Boat Parade, L.A. Zoo Lights, and Holiday Time at Disneyland. Whilst travelling to L.A. during the most magical time of the year might not be the most wallet-friendly, we promise you that this option is definitely worth the memories.

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January - February

Don’t rule out a wintertime vacation to Los Angeles! Marking another sweet spot for visitors to the City of Angels, the start of the year has a lot to offer all types of visitors. Much like December, you’ll find that the weather is cooler and more comfortable around January to February time, with average highs sitting around the upper 60s. Still, rain is more common around this time of the year, so we suggest packing accordingly: take a light jacket and a sweater, since temperatures can dip in the evening time, and you’ll be good to go! Around this time of the year, school is back in session and the holidays will have died down. With smaller dispersing crowds, the city is more manageable to explore. As if this all wasn’t enough, the winter months are the cheapest time to visit L.A., so don’t hesitate to book fast! Since it’s low season, you’ll also be able to find great deals on entertainment, dining, and more.

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March - May

If you’re drawn to Los Angeles for its beautiful beaches and scenic landscapes, you might want to consider heading over in the springtime. Springtime in L.A. is when things really start to heat up, so it’s perfect for sunseekers and outdoorsy types alike. There are a lot of great things to check out here, but some of our favorites include hiking the Santa Monica Mountains, stargazing at the Griffith Observatory and exploring tide pools at White Point/Royal Palms Beach. Just as you might have guessed, the city’s warm Mediterranean climate calls for a strong summer dress code and lots of water and sunscreen! Show up prepared, and you should be just fine. The city is pretty calm and quiet around this time of the year, though you might bump into some big crowds if you choose to travel during spring break or Memorial Day. With all of the advantages of travelling in the summertime and less of the fuss, couldn’t think of any reason not to visit L.A. in the spring!

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Summertime!

For those who like to be in the center of all the action, we suggest booking your L.A. getaway for the summertime. Of course, one of the best things about visiting Los Angeles in the summertime is the legendary West Coast weather. With temperatures hovering around the mid-80s, the beaches are a popular place to be. During this time of the year, it’s hot enough to sunbathe and the waters are warm enough to swim, surf, or scuba dive in - whatever takes your fancy! But still, there’s much more to look forward to around this time of the year than just the beach. Visit L.A. in the summertime, and you’ll find that there are countless exciting festivals, pop-ups and conventions to check out. Whilst this might be one of the more expensive times to visit La La Land, we promise that you’ll never be bored exploring Los Angeles in the summertime. Sun, surf, and the vibrant atmosphere of the city - what could be better than that?

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No doubt, Los Angeles is an exciting destination to visit any time of the year. Promising great weather, iconic attractions and unmatched natural beauty, there’s so much to see and do here no matter where your interests may lie. Maximize your travel experience with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.

Sarah Harris
Go City Travel Expert

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Bis Bus tour in Los Angeles
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Best Hollywood bus tours in Los Angeles

It’s almost impossible to think of Los Angeles without an image of Hollywood coming to mind – the city is intrinsically linked with glitz, glamor and celebrity. Almost every visit starts with a stroll up the Walk of Fame, a visit to the TCL Chinese Theater and a hike to the Hollywood sign – followed, of course, by some very awesome pics on your Instagram reel. What many people don’t realize, though, is that all these places are actually quite far apart, and while you can walk from one to another, it will take up a lot of your precious time. Instead, one of the best ways to get around is on a Hollywood bus tour – you can travel from one spot to another in comfort while a guide directs your attention to the city’s best historical and secret spots, leaving your hands free for snapping photos (and bragging to your friends). This handy guide will compare three of the best Hollywood Bus tours, and cover: Price Locations Tour language Timing Must-see locations Bus tour #1: Hop-on Hop-Off Hollywood and Los Angeles The Hollywood and Los Angeles Hop-On Hop-Off Hollywood route covers 15 stops, including all the essentials like The Guitar Center, the Comedy Store and Santa Monica Boulevard. The tour operates every day except Christmas and Thanksgiving, and runs from 10am to 4:30pm, departing every 45 minutes. You can hop on and off as many times as you like for as long as your ticket is valid, and the whole circuit takes about two hours. Tickets start from $49/£47 for an adult or $35/£33 for a child, and the tour is available in nine languages including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, Korean and Portuguese. Must-see stop: Pink’s Hotdogs If you’ve ever seen a film or tv character eating a hot dog in L.A, chances are they got it from Pink’s Hot Dogs on N. La Brea in Hollywood. They’ve been there since 1939 when Paul and Betty Pink started with a pushcart and some money borrowed from Betty’s mother. There are now several branches but this one is the original, serving around 2,000 hot dogs and burgers a day. Adding to their appeal are the unique and celebrity-inspired names, like the Lord of the Rings Dog (with onion rings), the Ozzy Spicy Dog, the Brando Dog, the Philly Cheesesteak Dog and the Martha Stewart Dog. Bus tour #2: Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Tour – One Day Our second option is the Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Tour. Its Hollywood route covers all the essentials on its 16-stop route, including the Dolby Theater, La Brea Tar Pits, Vine Street and Paramount Pictures. This tour also departs every 45 minutes between 10am and 4:30pm, and the full loop takes around two hours. Languages include English, Spanish, Portuguese, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, German, French and Italian, and tickets start from $39/£34 for an adult and $28/£25 for a child. You can purchase a ticket online, from the kiosk at the Dolby Theater, at any bus stop or on the bus itself, and it’s valid from when you first get on the bus. Must-see stop: Petersen Automotive Museum This is the ultimate destination for movie buffs and petrol heads. First, have your mind boggled by the James Bond Vehicle Collection, which includes the 2002 Aston Martin V12 Vanquish driven by Pierce Brosnan in Die Another Day, the 1997 Lotus Esprit S1 ‘Wet Nellie’ that Roger Moore drove off a pier in The Spy Who Loved Me, and the 1964 Aston Martin DB5, which has appeared in five Bond films including Goldeneye, Skyfall and No Time To Die. Then there’s the Omaze Hollywood Gallery, where you can inspect the 1981 DeLorean from Back to the Future. If you fancy putting yourself in the hot seat, you can try your skills in one of the Forza Motorsport racing simulators. Bus tour #3: Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus 1-Day Classic Tour The Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Classic Tour is a great option because the 12 stops on the Hollywood route include the TCL Chinese Theater, Rodeo Drive, the Dolby Theater and the Hollywood Sign. It runs between 10am and 3pm every day and departs every 30-45 minutes. Commentary is available in English, Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Mandarin, Korean, Japanese and Hindi, and the whole tour lasts around two hours. If you buy a ticket on its own it’ll start from $39/£34 for an adult or $31/£28 for a child – however if you have a Go City Explorer or All-Inclusive Pass, the Big Bus Tour is included and won’t cost you a thing. Must-see stop: Los Angeles Celebrity Bike Tour With a Go City attraction pass, the Los Angeles Celebrity Bike Tour is included with your Big Bus Ticket. It’s a self-guided audio tour which includes helmet, vest, GPS audio directions and bike rental for four hours. Go at your own pace as you get to know some iconic locations from films and TV shows, the best celebrity-spotting hangouts around Bel-Air and Beverly Hills and where some of the Hollywood A-list like to call home. Highlights include Marilyn Monroe’s former apartment, the last house owned by Michael Jackson, Rodeo Drive, the Sunset Strip and Greystone Mansion, which you’ll recognise from many shows and movies including Batman & Robin, The Bodyguard, The Big Lebowski and X-Men. Never miss a thing with Go City Whether you travel by bus, bike or foot, you’ll be able to spot all the favorite’s in Los Angeles with Go City. Get your All-Inclusive or Explorer Pass today and start saving on dozens of attractions all over the city.
Karleen Stevens
The iconic Hollywood sign in the hills above LA
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4 days in Los Angeles

The sun setting over the beach, golden stars shimmering in the pavement, the iconic Hollywood sign in the hills above – there’s so much about Los Angeles that’s instantly recognizable. And whether you’re staying for a day, a week or a year, there are some things that you simply can’t miss – but how do you know where to start? That’s why we’ve put together this 4-day itinerary that takes in all the essential sights of the City of Angels, while still giving you time to rest and have some fun. And let’s face it – if a visit to Los Angeles isn’t on your bucket list, it should be. Hollywood Walk of Fame TCL Theater Dolby Theater Rodeo Drive Hollywood Sign Theme parks Downtown LA and El Pueblo De Los Angeles Famous LA beaches Day 1 – Hollywood Heights Stop #1 – Hollywood Walk of Fame It’s day one in the big city and we’re starting with the big guns! Start at the Visitor Center on Hollywood Boulevard, then head outside to find the iconic walk of fame, a 1.3-mile stretch of pavement embedded with more than 2,500 stars. It’s free to stroll along and take pictures, and you might even stumble on a Star Ceremony – but if you’re looking for a particular star, you’ll save yourself some time by looking it up here first. Stop #2 - TCL (formerly Grauman’s) Chinese Theater An essential part of the Hollywood experience, the TCL Chinese Theater is where all the premieres happen. Compare your hands and feet to those of your idols in the Forecourt of the Stars, then use your pass to take a 30-minute walking tour of the theater, hearing all the gossip and behind-the-scenes stories of the movie industry. Or use your pass to get into the Hollywood Museum, where you’ll find four floors of movie history and memorabilia – everything from Indiana Jones’ whip to Rocky’s boxing gloves and Marilyn Monroe’s iconic dresses. Stop #3 - Dolby (formerly Kodak) Theater You might not recognize the outside of the Dolby Theater, but if you’ve ever watched the Academy Awards you’ll know where you are the instant you step inside. Now it’s your chance to feel like a VIP with a half-hour guided tour that takes in the elegant grandeur of the 3,400-seat auditorium, the Dolby VIP Lounge and other behind-the-scenes production areas. You’ll also get up close to a real Oscar statuette! Stop #4 – Rodeo Drive Grab some lunch from one of the many diners or street stands around Hollywood Boulevard then jump on the Big Bus Tour to stop 6, Rodeo Drive. Soak up the vibes of Beverly Hills, go shopping – or window shopping – and maybe spot a celebrity. When you’re done jump back on the Big Bus and rest your legs for a while, stopping if you like at the Farmer’s Market (stop 9) to take in a bit more shopping at the Grove. Stop #5 – Hollywood Sign Tour Be at the starting point at 4.15 for an early evening hike up to LA’s most iconic monument, the Hollywood sign. This 90-minute tour will get you as close to the sign as you can get, with unmatchable views over the whole city. Take a few snaps, then it’s downhill all the way home – the perfect way to finish your Hollywood experience. Stop #6 – A romantic evening After all that sightseeing, you’re bound to have worked up an appetite – so how about dinner with a view at Yamashiro in the Hollywood Hills? This famous restaurant has appeared as Japan in several films including Kill Bill and Gone in 60 Seconds. Finish off the evening with a stroll along Wilshire Boulevard, past the Light Installation at the entrance of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, or perhaps go see a movie! Day 2: Theme park No LA visit is complete without a day at a theme park, but there are so many to choose from, it’s hard to pick just one! Here are our suggestions for your first choice – for the others, you’ll just have to come back another time! Universal Studios Univeral Studios is an essential experience for movie buffs! Tour an active studio and see where all your favorite films were made – you might even spot some celebrities on their way to work! There’s also the Hollywood Special Effects show, Simpsons, Transformers and Minion Mayhem rides, and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Six Flags Magic Mountain It’s all about the thrills and spills at Six Flags Magic Mountain – here you’ll find over 100 rides, games and attractions, including the world’s tallest and fastest roller coasters. There’s plenty of family-friendly options as well, plus restaurants and water rides. Knott’s Berry Farm Knott’s Berry Farm is a good family-friendly park, with rides to suit every adrenalin level. They love a good theme month here too, as in October you’ll find it transformed into the spooky Knott’s Scary Farm, and in December it becomes the delightfully festive Knott’s Merry Farm. There’s also Knott’s Soak City just up the road, which is the perfect place to cool off in the summer months! Disneyland The young – and young at heart – will always enjoy the magic of Disney. There are two options in LA: Disneyland Park is the original and has more recognizable rides and attractions, while Disney California Adventure is the more modern incarnation, without the iconic castles but with bars that sell alcohol. Warner Brothers Studios Warner Brothers Studios is another fun-filled option if you’re fascinated with film-making! Take a look at back-lot sets, watch green screen technology in action and explore sets from popular television shows including Friends and The Big Bang Theory. Step onto recreated sets from the DC universe, then be sorted into your Hogwarts house at the Wizarding World and Fantastic Beasts exhibitions. Day 3 – Downtown LA Stop #1 – Downtown LA Walking Tour Time to get into the nitty gritty of the city today, exploring LA’s downtown precinct. Get your bearings and learn about LA’s culture, arts and history on a Downtown LA Walking Tour. You’re bound to recognize several spots along the way, including City Hall, The Music Center, the Museum of Contemporary Art and the dazzling exterior of the Walt Disney Concert Hall. Stop #2 – Grand Central Market If you’re a foodie, you’ll be pleased to learn that your walking tour takes in the 1920s Spring Arcade Building, which has a food market, and the Grand Central Market, where you can stay for lunch and sample some world-famous Oysters. Stop #3 – Angel’s Flight and El Pueblo While you digest, ride the world’s shortest railway up to Bunker Hill and back down again. Then take a walk to the Mexican Marketplace via Grand Park and El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument. You can also take the chance to go into any of the buildings you passed this morning. Stop #4 – Iconic LA Eateries Stay in El Pueblo District to visit the colorful Mexican marketplace and then choose from French, Asian, Peruvian, Italian and even British themed restaurants when you get peckish. Finish off the evening with a cocktail at Clifton’s Republic, a former cafeteria that now houses four floors of trendy bars, each with a different theme. Day 4 – West Side Story Stop #1 – UCLA Campus After all that sightseeing, you’ve earned a day at the beach! On the way there’s time for a quick stop at the UCLA campus and a look at another Hollywood backdrop – the building that’s played Harvard in several movies, including Legally Blonde. It’s a great spot for a stroll, offering a glimpse into American student life as well as the room at Boelter Hall where the internet was born. Stop 2# - Santa Monica Pier & Third Street Promenade Once you’re done with UCLA, head down to Santa Monica and the Pier. Here you’ll find the official endpoint of the legendary Route 66, with a sign that you just have to take a photo of. Pass the rest of the morning lounging on the beach or head to the small amusement park on the pier, where you’ll find rides, games and an aquarium. Stop #3 – Venice Beach and Canals After lunch, spend a little time wandering around the canals of the Venice district, then head down to Venice Beach to soak up a bit more sun. Go for a swim, slurp on an ice cream or even try renting a bike or roller skates for the afternoon to truly feel like a local. Stop #4 – Sunset over the beach For your final night in LA it’s time to sit back and soak up the atmosphere. Find a cozy restaurant for a romantic dinner or keep things casual with a burger from In N’Out and a treat from Sidecar Doughnuts. Then go for a stroll along the boardwalk, or just sit and watch as the sun sets over the pacific. See more with Go City There’s so much to see in Los Angeles, from Hollywood icons to pristine beaches, that you’re bound to want to come back again and again. Ensure you don’t miss a thing with the Go City All-Inclusive Pass, which will save you money on dozens of LA’s most famous attractions.
Karleen Stevens
skyline-los-angeles-during-sunset
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Los Angeles Staycation - Ideas to Plan a Fun Weekend at Home

We all love a good vacation. But sometimes, life gets in the way and we can’t get out of town for a variety of reasons. That’s where the idea of a Los Angeles staycation comes in handy. Explore your local city with fresh eyes, seeing and doing things you’ve never done, or only done once. You could even stay in a hotel to make it seem like more of an escape from daily life. If you’re in Los Angeles looking for some ways to explore your hometown, then check out this list of our favorite things to do in L.A. for a fun staycation. Our top staycation ideas include: Aquarium of the Pacific OUE Skyspace L.A. Natural History Museum California Science Center Newport Landing Whale Watch Cruise L.A. Zoo & Botanical Gardens Roller-Skating in Santa Monica The Huntington Library & Gardens Griffith Park Save on Admission Looking to save on tickets to your favorite Los Angeles staycation ideas? Pick up a Go Los Angeles® Card to save up to 50% on top area museums, tours, activities, and more. See all available attractions and prices – here. Newport Landing Whale Watch Cruise In search of something truly special for your staycation? Then a whale watch cruise it is! This delightful and educational excursion is an excellent way to not only see more of your city via the water, but also to appreciate the natural environment in a way you might not have before. Come here to see these majestic creatures in the wild, from Giant Blue Ways to smaller Minke Whales. The kind of whales you’ll see varies seasonally, so be sure to ask your captain what to expect! Getting In: Whale watch tickets are included with the Go Los Angeles Card. Roller-Skating in Santa Monica If you’re in search of some old-fashioned fun, why not try your hand at roller-skates after all these years? Cruise around the Santa Monica Boardwalk on your skates, and enjoy the fresh air and exercise. Adults and kids alike will delight in this fun activity. You can rent skates easily from Perry’s Beach Café, which also doubles as an excellent place for some tasty lunch or snacks (see above - doesn't it look relaxing?) Getting In: Perry’s Beach Café rentals are included with the Go Los Angeles Card. Don’t Forget to Save There you have it – our favorite suggestions for Los Angeles staycation ideas. Whether you’re the type that loves to explore and learn new things, or just love to kick back and relax, we’re sure you’ll be able to create that perfect staycation plan. Remember, if you’re looking to spend wisely while enjoying your local attractions, pick up a Go Los Angeles® Card today!
Katie Sagal

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