24 Hours in LA: Your Ultimate City Adventure

Short on time? Discover LA’s must-sees, eats, and hidden gems in just one day.

Published: June 12, 2026
Palm Trees in LA

Only have one day to experience Los Angeles? No worries—we’ve got the perfect itinerary to help you soak up the star-studded glamour, sunny coastline, and vibrant energy that make this city shine. From legendary landmarks to mouthwatering eats and a generous dose of local color, you’ll breeze through the greatest hits (with just enough time for a beach selfie!). Get ready for an adventure filled with Hollywood sparkle, ocean breezes, and LA flavor at every turn. 

Our picks for must-do spots and experiences across LA: 

  • Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Ride 
  • Griffith Observatory Tour 
  • Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour 
  • The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour 
  • Grammy Museum 
  • Natural History Museum 
  • TCL Chinese Theatre Tour 
  • Universal Studios Hollywood 
  • Madame Tussauds Hollywood 

Day 1

Start Strong: Seaside Cycling in Santa Monica & Venice 

Nothing says LA like the ocean—so why not begin your day with a breezy cycle along the coast? Head to Unlimited Biking’s Santa Monica Shop (easily reached via the Metro E Line to Downtown Santa Monica station). Grab a rental and soak up salty air and people-watching galore as you pedal the scenic bike path through Santa Monica, down Muscle Beach, and on to the quirky murals and skate parks of Venice Beach. This stretch is a feast for the senses—street performers do their thing, locals zip past on roller blades, and the Pacific glistens to your right. For about two hours, you’ll feel fully immersed in laid-back LA. 

Free Fun Along the Way: Pause at the Santa Monica Pier for panoramic photo ops and, if you’re feeling lucky, a ride on the classic Ferris wheel. Venice’s canals—designed to mimic their European namesake—are also worth a quick detour for a peaceful break from the bustle. 

Coffee & Brunch Stop: Blue Bottle (Venice) 

Before you leave the coast, refuel at Blue Bottle on Abbot Kinney. Grab a perfectly crafted oat milk latte and, if hunger strikes, their poached egg and avocado toast is a local favorite. The café sports a fresh, minimalist vibe—ideal for catching your breath before your big city adventure continues. 

Up to the Stars: Griffith Observatory Tour

Griffith Observatory

Next, hop on the Metro E Line back to Downtown LA, transfer to the Metro Red Line at 7th Street/Metro Center, and ride north to Vermont/Sunset Station. From here, catch the DASH Observatory bus straight up to Griffith Observatory. This Art Deco wonder perched atop the hills sets the mood with its vintage glamour and, of course, legendary city views. 

Join a Griffith Observatory Guided Tour for a deep dive into the science and stories behind those famous domes. You’ll be wowed by the Tesla coil, sun-dappled planetarium, and sweeping Hollywood vistas that make everyone feel like a movie star, even at mid-morning. 

Lunch Break: Alcove Café and Bakery (Los Feliz) 

Head down the hill to Los Feliz and dig into a casual lunch at Alcove Café—the garden patio vibes are unbeatable. The California Chicken Salad Sandwich is our top pick: juicy, fresh, and genuinely filling. Pair it with a lavender lemonade while you soak up the neighborhood’s artistic buzz and leafy streets. 

A-List Afternoon: Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Hollywood Walk 

Take Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland station in the heart of Tinseltown. Here’s where you step right into movie history—and selfie heaven. 

First up, the Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour. This open-air bus experience glides you through Beverly Hills and past storied mansions. The guides keep things fun, sharing juicy tidbits and showbiz secrets at every turn. Palms, winding roads, and the chance to spot a movie mansion make this journey a snapshot of Hollywood glamour. 

Then, continue soaking up the local color on Hollywood Boulevard. Walk the Walk of Fame, ogle the handprints outside TCL Chinese Theatre, and snap a cheeky selfie with a Spiderman or Marilyn Monroe impersonator. 

Don’t Miss: Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Friends Posing with Marilyn Monroe at Madame Tussauds

Channel your inner paparazzi at Madame Tussauds. You’ll meet eerily lifelike wax versions of stars from every era, all backed by glitzy sets built for photo magic. It’s as close as most of us will get to a selfie with Beyoncé or The Rock! 

Afternoon Pick-Me-Up: Ghirardelli Soda Fountain 

Just across from the Chinese Theatre, treat yourself to a sundae at Ghirardelli. The sea salt caramel banana split is legendary—drippy, decadent, and exactly the sugar rush you need before your evening plans. 

Sunset Views: The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour 

For a classic end to your LA adventure, make your way to the Hollywood Sign via the Walking Tour by Bikes and Hikes LA—Uber or Lyft is your quickest bet from central Hollywood. The tour leads you up scenic trails, with your guide sharing local lore and pointing out the best photo spots along the way. As the sun dips and LA’s neon buzz starts to flicker, the view from the top is unforgettable; the whole city feels at your feet. 

Dinnertime Downtown: Perch Rooftop 

Finish your day with style in Downtown LA. Hop on the Metro Red Line (Hollywood/Highland to Pershing Square) to reach Perch, a French-inspired rooftop bistro with twinkling fairy lights and sweeping urban vistas. The shrimp and crab risotto is a stand-out, and the vibe shifts from cozy brasserie to lively lounge as live jazz takes over at sundown. 

Optional Nightcap: The Varnish (Hidden Speakeasy) 

If energy still remains and you want a true LA touch of vintage cool, wander a few blocks to The Varnish, tucked behind Cole’s French Dip. This dark, intimate speakeasy is all old-school ambiance—think craft cocktails with a jazz soundtrack. The bartenders know their stuff, and the vibe is both stylish and unpretentious. 

 

With one day in Los Angeles, you’ll hit the sand, glide through Hollywood history, revel in city views, and savor flavors from coast to downtown. Whether you’re here for the first time or rediscovering the city’s magic, LA in a day delivers a jam-packed dose of the good life—with plenty of sunshine (and maybe a star sighting, too). 

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do Near Madame Tussauds Hollywood or Things to Do with Friends in Los Angeles  

Step up your sightseeing with Go City®   

We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.   

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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
Children on an Easter Egg Hunt
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Easter in Los Angeles: Our Guide to Fun, Sun, and Surprises

Swap bunnies for beaches and discover LA’s unique spin on Easter fun!
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Things to do in Venice Los Angeles

Headed to Los Angeles and looking for interesting things to do in Venice? You’ve come to the right place! A world-famous neighborhood set right along the Pacific Ocean, Venice is well-recognized for its unique history and laidback bohemian atmosphere. Offering the perfect combination of artsy and natural attractions, Venice is a fantastic hidden gem well worth exploring. Most people will have heard Venice Beach, but scratch just beneath the surface and you’ll find that the area has so much more to offer its visitors. From grabbing a bite to eat at the Venice Farmers’ Market to visiting the unique Mosaic Tile House, there’s a lot to choose from here. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up some of the best stops in the area to add to the travel bucket list. Note them down, check off your favorites and you’re sure to have a blast! Hit the Classics Venice Beach is not only one of the most famous beaches in Los Angeles, but also one of the most well-recognized attractions of its kind in the world. A popular visitor hotspot and emblematic symbol of SoCal, this place is perfect for soaking up the sun and people-watching. Stretching for 3 miles along the Western coastline, this spot has practically everything going for it: an impressive sweep of sand, turquoise soft surf, and a vibrant atmosphere to match. This place is a flurry of activity every day of the week, with countless fun things to choose from. Take a dip in the sea, try your hand at surfing, or get active on one of the site’s many sports courts. And of course, since this is one of L.A.’s more popular draws, the beach is bordered by great eateries, funky boutiques, and outdoor bars. With so much to see and do here, it’s impossible to be bored. Another one of our favorite things to do in neighborhood is of course heading over to the Venice Farmers’ Market. For those looking to grab a bite and take in the atmosphere of the area at the same time, this spot is perfect. Nestled between Centennial Park and the Venice Mall, this spot operates all year round, slinging delicious eats of all kinds. Seasonal fruit and vegetables are sold alongside freshly-popped kettle corn, locally roasted coffee, and empanadas hot straight from the oven. You’ll also find original artworks, jewellery and souvenirs being punted. True to the nature of the area, this spot harnesses a fun yet laidback-cool atmosphere - walking through the market, you’ll often catch cooking demos, live music, and painters as you go. We especially love this place because every trip is an experience in itself. Try Something Different For those looking to incorporate a little bit of education into their travel experience, Venice Oceanarium is the place to be. Billed as ‘’The Museum Without Walls’’, this unique outdoor classroom situated right along the seashore on Venice Pier works to provide a better understanding of underwater life. Offering an impressive array of educational and engaging exhibits, this spot is perfect for those of all ages. Discover more about the natural world through this museum’s unique collection of stunning shells, dried crabs, and preserved shark jaws. Though this stop is small, its collection is constantly rotating, meaning that there’s always something new to learn here. Whether you’re a hardcore animal lover or an impassioned nature geek, we couldn’t think of a better way to get to know more about the briny deep. Where Barcelona has Gaudi’s Sagrada Família, Venice has the Mosaic Tile House. Okay, okay - this funky spot isn’t as grand as any of Gaudi’s masterpieces. Still, we’d argue that this large-scale artwork-in-progress echos the vibrant energy and artistry of his works. Once a bland, beige home with few distinguishing features, this project took off after owners Cheri Pann and Gonzalo Duran began a weekend project to install bathroom tiles. Not long after, Pann and Duran were shattering tiles and covering every inch of their home with them. Today, visitors can take guided tours to see this unique project in all its over-the-top glory. Relax! Little known fact: Venice was built on a system of channels way back in 1905 by the young entrepreneur Abbot Kinney. Today, the neighborhood is known for its beautiful Venice Canals, which run between the Venice Boardwalk and of course, the Abbot Kinney. Undoubtedly peaceful and scenic, this spot offers a little spot of Italy right in the center of Los Angeles. Strolling through this charming area, visitors can enjoy quaint bridges, landscaped yards, and an extremely wide variety of architecture. Keep your eyes peeled as you’re walking, since the area is home to a lot of wonderful wildlife - visitors can expect to see ducks, herons, egrets and even the occasional seal. Amongst the picturesque beach houses, you’ll also find eclectic markets, sidewalk cafes, fun bars and more. Offering a quiet respite from the city, this spot is perfect for taking some time to yourself and soaking up the sun. Unarguably, there are countless interesting things to see and do in Venice. For just a small fraction of the city, the area is characterized by beautiful sands, quirky hidden gems, and only-in-L.A. attractions. Really, there’s no better place to experience the free-spirited nature of the West Coast. Explore the area to its full potential with GoCity’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

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