Los Angeles in 6 Days: Food, Film, Fun, and More

Here’s how to experience Los Angeles’ top neighborhoods, attractions, and eats—day by day!

Published: June 12, 2026
Aerial View of Echo Park Lake

Planning a trip to LA and wondering if you’ll have time to see it all? With a city this sprawling—from sandy beaches to star-studded boulevards—six days is the sweet spot. With a bit of planning, you’ll explore movie sets, savor diverse bites, learn some science, bask on famous beaches, and maybe spot a celebrity or two. No matter if you’re with family, friends, or flying solo, these six fun-filled days in Los Angeles will have you falling for La La Land’s unique blend of culture, creativity, and California sunshine. 

Our big LA favorites for six days of adventure include: 

  • Griffith Observatory 
  • Universal Studios Hollywood 
  • Santa Monica & Venice Beach 
  • The Getty Center 
  • Natural History Museum 
  • Madame Tussauds Hollywood 
  • Warner Bros. Studio Tour 
  • Beverly Hills Bike Tour 
  • Aquarium of the Pacific 
  • La Brea Tar Pits & Museum 
  • California Science Center 
  • Grand Central Market 
  • The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour 

Day 1: Hollywood Classics and Celebrity Sights 

Kick off your LA adventure in the heart of movie magic—Hollywood! Start with the Red Line Metro to Hollywood/Highland Station. Step straight out onto Hollywood Boulevard, where the energy buzzes and the Walk of Fame is just the beginning. 

First, scoop up a ticket to Madame Tussauds Hollywood. Rub shoulders (okay, waxy elbows) with your favorite stars and snap selfies alongside legends. The place is vibrant and surprising—who knew Britney was taller than you? 

Just across the street, slip into the TCL Chinese Theatre for a guided tour. Dive into stories of glamorous movie premieres and hunt for your hand size mate among the cemented handprints. The interior décor is nothing short of show-stopping, where golden dragons and lavish detailing transport you to Hollywood’s golden age. 

Hungry for a midday bite? Walk over to Musso & Frank Grill. With its deep red booths and tuxedoed servers, it’s been an industry favorite for over a century. Go for the legendary flannel cakes or the classic martini—either way, you're eating where countless movie stars have lunched. 

Afterward, hop on the Big Bus Celebrity Homes & Lifestyle Tour right from Hollywood Boulevard. Spy luxe mansions in Beverly Hills, gasp at palm-lined avenues, and get a peek into the lifestyle of LA’s rich and famous. 

Polish off your first day with a stroll along Sunset Boulevard. Grab rooftop cocktails and small plates at Mama Shelter’s Rooftop Bar—bright umbrellas, a fun crowd, and sweeping views from downtown to the Hollywood sign. 

Day 2: Universal Thrills and Griffith Views

Universal Studios Globe

Today’s about thrills and views! Ride the Red Line Metro north to Universal City/Studio City Station, followed by a quick free tram to Universal Studios Hollywood. From Hogwarts to the backlot tour, you’ll catch classic movie sets and rush between cutting-edge rides. There’s energy everywhere, and each themed zone gives off its own dose of Hollywood sparkle. 

After hours of high-octane fun, hop the tram back and catch a Metro bus (line 222 from Universal City, toward Hollywood) up to the Griffith Observatory. It’s perched perfectly in Griffith Park—come for fascinating science displays and stay for world-class city views and telescope peeks. The vibe is equal parts educational and awe-inspiring, especially as the sun dips and LA’s twinkling lights flare to life. 

If you’re feeling active, take the Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour (access via the DASH Observatory shuttle from Vermont/Sunset Metro station). The hike’s a winner for both families and couples, with expert guides peppering local history and pop culture tidbits as you work your way up to one of LA’s most legendary vantage points. 

Dinner’s at Little Dom’s in Los Feliz—candlelit booths, vintage movie posters, and house-made meatballs make for a cozier-than-Hollywood kind of evening. 

Day 3: Beach Breaks and Bike Rides 

Time to soak in LA’s seaside sunshine. Take the Expo Line from downtown right into Santa Monica. For an active morning, grab bikes at Santa Monica Bike Rentals by Unlimited Biking or join the Highlights of Santa Monica and Venice Beach Bike Tour. Cruise the boardwalk—muscle beach, colorful murals, street performers, and outdoor gyms galore. The salty breeze and vibrant atmosphere will have you feeling full California. 

Linger for lunch at The Albright on the Santa Monica Pier. Their clam chowder and lobster rolls, served with wharf views and salty air, hit all the seaside cravings. Watch for the pelicans perched nearby. 

For the afternoon, stroll or ride down to Venice Beach. Duck into Menotti’s Coffee Stop for a perfectly-pulled cortado and cool, retro-surf atmosphere, complete with vinyl records on the speakers. 

Back in Santa Monica, catch the sunset from The Bungalow—cocktails and string-light ambiance make it a relaxed spot to wind down before dinner. Finish the day at Cassia, where modern Asian-influenced dishes (think Vietnamese pot au feu) pair with breezy, open-air dining and a hip crowd. 

Day 4: Art, Science, and Space

View of Los Angeles from the Getty Center

Today’s for art lovers and curious minds. Start with a ride on Metro’s Expo Line to Exposition Park. Begin at the Natural History Museum—grand halls filled with towering dinos, glittering gems, and beautifully detailed diorama rooms. The butterfly pavilion in spring is a delight. 

Then, stroll just next door to the California Science Center. It’s wondrous for kids and adults—interactive hands-ons galore, and the highlight is definitely catching an IMAX Movie. 

Hungry? Take a break at Grand Central Market downtown, just a short Metro hop away. It’s always buzzing, and you’re surrounded by every type of LA cuisine: Eggslut draws a big crowd for their signature egg sandwiches, or try Pupuseria Salvadoreña for pillowy pupusas with zippy salsa. There are lots of communal tables and a friendly, all-sorts-of-people energy. 

Spend your afternoon surrounded by world-class art at The Getty Center (take the Metro Red Line to Union Station, then bus 761). The tram sweeps you up the hill for panoramic city and ocean views, then you’re meandering through fine art, modern sculpture gardens, and eye-popping architecture. 

If you’re feeling fancy, dinner at The Getty Restaurant offers sunset views and fresh Californian fare. For something less formal, swing by Father’s Office in Culver City—dive-bar lighting, a legendary burger (no substitutions!), and a wall of craft beer taps. 

Day 5: LA History, Strange Science, and Stadium Spectacle 

Start at the legendary La Brea Tar Pits and Museum (Wilshire Blvd, Metro Purple Line to Wilshire/Western). It’s fascinating and a bit surreal—the bubbling tar, life-sized mammoths, and dramatic stories of LA’s prehistoric past make this genuinely unique. 

From there, it’s a short bus or Uber to the heart of downtown’s Autry Museum of the American West. Here you’re immersed in captivating stories, art, and artifacts, all celebrating Western legend and Hollywood’s take on it—the galleries are colorful, the exhibits interactive, and the atmosphere invites discovery at every turn. 

Wind things down with dinner at The Proud Bird near LAX airport—a lively aviation-themed food bazaar with everything from bao buns to barbecue, and windows overlooking incoming planes. Kids and adults alike will love the model planes and open-air patio. 

Day 6: Animals, Oceans, and Ghostly Adventures

Sea Lions at the Aquarium of the Pacific

Head south for a day packed with wildlife and ocean wonders! Take the Metro Blue Line (A Line) to Downtown Long Beach for the Aquarium of the Pacific. Meet playful sea otters, walk through the shark lagoon tunnel, and brush up on Southern California marine life. The jellyfish room is especially mesmerizing. 

Next, hop on the Aquabus (a quirky, colorful water taxi) for a breezy ride across Rainbow Harbor. Disembark at Shoreline Village, where you can explore funky shops and snag some classic souvenir photos with views of the Queen Mary. 

For lunch, head to Parkers’ Lighthouse. The vibe here is relaxed coastal elegance, with wraparound windows overlooking the harbor and, if you’re a seafood lover, crave-worthy signature dishes like the mesquite-grilled fresh fish or their famous lobster bisque. 

As the afternoon winds down, head back into town for one last quirky LA experience: The Haunt Ghost Tour. Gather at your meeting point in downtown LA and prepare for tales of haunted theatres, spectral movie stars, and chilling unsolved mysteries. The tour is fun and just a touch spooky, with enthusiastic guides who bring the stories (and streets) to life in true Hollywood style. 

For your farewell dinner, book a table at Redbird in Downtown LA. Set inside a stunning former cathedral, it’s all soaring ceilings, candlelight, and glamour. The menu is modern American—think perfectly-cooked ribeye, cauliflower with hazelnuts and pomegranate, or their highly-praised cocktails. It’s the ideal final taste of LA: creative, buzzy, and unforgettable. 

If the night is still young, cap your adventure with a nightcap at the swanky Broken Shaker rooftop bar. Tropical drinks, eclectic decor, city views, and plenty of that anything-can-happen-in-LA vibe—it’s the perfect spot to toast an epic week in the City of Angels. 

Summary

In six days, you’ll have covered everything that captures the spirit of Los Angeles—the movie magic, the endless beaches, the quirky neighborhoods, and the hidden eateries that locals love. Whether you’re cycling Venice, star-spotting in Beverly Hills, or marveling at science at Exposition Park, LA promises plenty of reasons to keep coming back for more. 

 

Enjoyed this? Check out Things to Do During a Heatwave in Los Angeles or Everything You Need to Know About Go City’s Los Angeles Passes   

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.   

See more, do more, and experience more with Go City® – just choose a pass to get started!   

Powered by AI

This article was generated with the help of AI to provide accurate and up-to-date information. The Go City team has reviewed and curated the content to ensure it meets our quality standards for accuracy and relevance.

Continue reading

Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles
Blog

Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles

Are you heading to Los Angeles this year? Then you ought to check out the city's market scene. With a market for pretty much every need, you'll be well served! Today, we're talking about the best markets in LA's downtown district, so if you plan to stay in or around the area, this one's for you! From flower markets to farm-to-table grocers, we've got you covered. Including: Grand Central Market Downtown LA Farmer's Market Smorgasburg LA Wholesale Produce Market The Santee Alley ...and more! Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles: Grand Central Market Hold on to your taste buds, because we're diving straight into a gastronomic wonderland. If you want nothing but the freshest fruit and veg, or some of the tastiest street food in the city, look no further than Grand Central Market. Taking up an enviable 30,000 square feet, it's one of the larger markets on this list. It's unsurprising, then, that it attracts plenty of food establishments from across the city to set up shop. Popular joints like Eggslut and Press Brothers have stalls where you can sample their culinary delights, but that just scratches the surface. Every cuisine under the sun is represented here under the sun, so go and see what other secrets await you at Grand Central Market. For foodies, it's one of the best markets in Downtown Los Angeles. Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles: Downtown LA Farmers Market Even if you've never been to the Downtown Los Angeles Farmer's Market before, you may have seen it. A certain angry Brit is often there buying stuff on his cooking shows, so if you hear someone shouting expletives and spot a spikey mop of blonde hair, you'll know you're in the right place. But it's not just modern celebrities like Gordon Ramsey who have frequented the Downtown Los Angeles Farmer's Market. The Beatles, Marylin Monroe, and Frank Sinatra are just some of the many famous faces that have graced its stalls and halls. So, what brings all these recognizable people to the Downtown Los Angeles Farmer's Market? Well, it's likely the produce. Tons of family-run businesses set up shop here, offering top-quality, fresh produce to all who visit. If you live locally, or plan to stay in an Airbnb instead of a hotel, you won't find a better place to pick up ingredients. There are also recognizable brands like Starbucks there, if you need some creature comforts. Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles: Smorgasburg If you're happy to hit up a market that only opens its doors once a week, then Smorgasburg is one of the best markets in Downtown Los Angeles. Just be prepared for crowds - after all, plenty of people likely have the exact same idea as you. If you do brave it, you'll find a market offering tons of food, drink, and a variety of specialty items collectors will die for. LA powerhouses like Baohaus, Daddy's Chicken Shack, and Big Mozz all have pop-up stalls at Smorgasburg, so your tastebuds are in for a treat. However, what's unique about Smorgasburg, and what makes it one of the best markets in Downtown Los Angeles, is that on every third Sunday of the month, the Record Fair and Vintage Market turns up. You'll find thousands of rare vinyl, CDs, cassettes, and merch for underground bands and artists. If you love discovering new talent, or just want to show off when they eventually blow up, then you owe it to yourself to go check it out. Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles: LA Wholesale Produce Market Need a load of fresh produce in a pinch? Why go to a supermarket when you can get it fresh from the farm at the Los Angeles Wholesale Produce Market? Offering arguably the widest selection of locally-sourced produce in Downtown, it's a great place to buy early. If you arrive before today's produce is trucked in, you can get great deals on yesterday's produce they'll just throw out. So be savvy, set your alarm, and rise and shine for some sweet, sweet deals. Just be prepared to buy big - after all, it's a wholesale market. You'll need to buy in bulk - by the box. Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles: The Santee Alley Calling all bargain hunters! Welcome to Santee Alley, where haggling is a sport, and finding a hidden gem is the ultimate victory. This bustling street market is like a maze of fashion chaos, and the perfect place to unleash your inner fashionista without maxing your credit cards. You'll find both recognizable labels and unique boutique items on offer, as well as handmade oddities from homebound seamsters. Fashion lovers will be in heaven, but really, you need to be prepared to barter. Every item has a hidden price, but you'll need to negotiate to get the best deal. If you don't have wheeling and dealing up your sleeve, prepare to pay a premium. Best Markets in Downtown Los Angeles: Original LA Flower Market And finally, if you're after flowers, then the Original Los Angeles Flower Market is a must-visit! Local florists, event planners, and flower enthusiasts flock to discover a wide array of flora. You'll find bunches of pretty much every flower imaginable here, from roses to chrysanthemums, and everything in between. Want to make a big impression on a first date? You know where to go. There's not much more to say, really. It's flowers. If you want or need flowers, this is your best bet. Just bear in mind that the Original Los Angeles Flower Market can get a little hectic on weekends. If you want to beat the rush of frothy-mouthed flower enthusiasts, best head there during the week. And those were our picks of the best markets in Downtown Los Angeles! If you're a local who wants some entertainment ideas, or on vacation and need some inspiration, check out Go City! With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of LA's best bits for one low price!
Dom Bewley
Things to do in Los Angeles at Night
Blog

Things to do in Los Angeles at Night

Ahoy there, traveler! Are you a creature of the night? Do you sleep all day and party all night? If so, check out our picks of the best things to do in Los Angeles at night, and make the most of your evening! Including: Ghost Hunting Tour of Chinatown Yoga on Huntington Beach A nighttime tour of LA by Star Track Two Bit Circus and more! Ghost Hunting Tour of Chinatown It's a nighttime blog, so let's kick things off with some spooky evening fun! Chinatown is one of the most popular districts of Los Angeles, and it's also seen its fair share of gruesome goings-on. So, why not follow in Jack Nichelson's footsteps and see what's really going on in Chinatown on this ghost-hunting tour? With a professional paranormal investigator in tow, you'll walk the streets, learn about the tools and tricks every paranormal investigator should use, and stop off every time their equipment starts popping off. Starting at the Chinatown Metro Station, you'll pass the cemeteries that were uncovered during the station's building. Next, you'll explore a nearby warehouse said to be haunted by its former employees. Next up is the neighborhood's oldest cottage, which has received claims of haunting for decades. If you can stomach the spookiness, this ghost-hunting tour is one of the best things to do in Los Angeles at night! Haunted Hollywood Walking Tour But wait, there's more! You thought one spooky tour of Los Angeles was enough? Think again. Hollywood is known for many things; the glitz and glamor, the A-list celebrities, the home of cinema, and more. But did you know it's also been the scene of many a grisly murder?! Shocking, we know. If you fancy seeing the sights and learning all about them, this haunted Hollywood walking tour should be top of your list of things to do in LA at night! Your fright-filled walk will take you down the Boulevard of Broken Dreams as you visit haunted landmarks aplenty. Hotels, theaters, and other landmarks where gruesome hijinks have taken place. And don't worry; you won't be alone. Your spook-certified guide will be right there with you, dropping knowledge bombs about each location like some kind of information exploder. Highlights include the Pantages Theatre, where Howard Hughes supposedly wanders the halls; the Knickerbocker Hotel, where Houdini put in his final performance; the Hollywood Sign, which has seen its fair share of violence; the Hollywood & Highland Complex, where both the Hollywood Ripper and Manson murders occurred; and finally the Roosevelt Hotel, where famous ghosts such as Marylin Monroe's are said to lie in wait. Spooky stuff, indeed! Yoga on Huntington Beach Now we're going to swiftly shift gears from outer spooks to inner peace. If you're longing to align your chakras, do a downward dog, and breathe in that sweet sea air on your Los Angeles vacation, why not do a beach-based yoga class? And don't worry; if you have a busy day, you can even do one during sunset. Interested? Head to LA's famous Huntington Beach for blissful views of Orange County's sunset while your certified teacher takes you through the steps, stretches, and poses. These classes are for all types, so if you're a seasoned stretcher or a yoga newb, you'll be welcomed with open arms. And, with a whole host of chakra-aligning activities to choose from, including yoga, pilates, and qigong, you're sure to find something to help you unwind - or prepare you for a night of fun. Huntington Beach's sun-kissed sands provide a picturesque setting for your class, creating a calming and mindful environment as the waves lap gently at the shore. So, why not take a load off and check it out? A nighttime tour of LA by Star Track Of course, not every tour of Los Angeles needs to be filled with spooks and shocks. You don't even need to use your legs. So, why not hop aboard one of Star Track's luxurious vehicles, and get an A-list tour of the City of Angels? Your tour vessel is fitted out with comfortable seats and massive TV screens that'll give you sweet morsels of information as you drive. Then, your driver/guide will take you on a rollercoaster of sightseeing wonder. You'll pass places from famous movie scenes and learn some behind-the-scenes gossip. You'll pass several celebrities' homes and, thanks to the TVs on board, you'll even see walkthroughs from inside said homes. Imagine yourself living there, and slap yourself and put such foolish ambitions to rest. Luck out, and you may even see some famous faces in their driveways as they stumble home from the latest celeb house party. So whose houses will you see? Well, you may have heard of them. Tom Cruise, anyone? How about Ellen DeGeneres? That's right, star chasers, and those are but two of the many homes you'll see on your travels from Hollywood Boulevard to Mulholland Drive. Two Bit Circus If the tour life just isn't for you, why not explore the digital delights that Los Angeles has on offer? At Two Bit Circus, you'll enter the virtual world to do battle with beasts, or just settle in for some classic arcade fun. Two Bit's piece de resistance is unarguably its Virtual Reality Playground, where state-of-the-art equipment will transport you to other realms, where possibilities are endless. Jump incredible distances, fight unimaginable horrors, and do it all with $30 credit on us. Or, if you'd rather stay in actual reality, hit the arcade to play some old-school cool like Pacman, or team up with a buddy on NBA Jam. Remember NBA Jam? Ah, simpler times. You can even dare to challenge one of their escape rooms. Oh, and there's a bar. Happy days. If you're looking for some digital evening fun, then Two Bit Circus is a must-visit, and one of the best things to do in Los Angeles at night! And those are our picks of the best things to do in Los Angeles at night! If you're looking for some daytime fun too, check out Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can see all of LA's best bits for one low price!
Dom Bewley
Blog

10+ Things to Do in Los Angeles in Spring - April to June Activities & More

Everybody loves a good trip to L.A. From Hollywood to Santa Monica, there is something for all visitors who come to the City of Angels. Spring is an especially good time to visit, with more reliably warm weather (although Los Angeles never gets very cold), noticeably shorter lines, and easier admission into top attractions. If you’re looking for things to do in Los Angeles in Spring, check out our list of some of the best activities and attractions, including... Knott's Boysenberry Festival at Knott's Berry Farm Pacific Park at Santa Monica Pier Huntington Library and Gardens Newport Landing Whale Watch Explore Griffith Park and more! Save on Springtime Activities in Los Angeles Regular admission to a number of these attractions are available on the Go Los Angeles® Card. Choose as you go from popular attractions and save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Check out all available Los Angeles attractions, passes, and prices. Please note, some of these special spring events may be separately ticketed and not available on the Go Los Angeles® Card. Knott's Boysenberry Festival at Knott's Berry Farm Butterfly Pavilion at the Natural History Museum From March to September, the Natural History Museum in L.A. opens up their famed Butterfly Pavilion to the public. See these delicate little beauties flit and flutter around, and perhaps even land on you! The best time to visit is about mid-morning. Due to its popularity, you'll need a timed ticket to enter the pavilion. Getting In: Natural History Museum tickets are included with the Go Los Angeles Card. Commune with Whales Enjoy Universal Studios Hollywood Universal Studios Hollywood is one of those magical places that delight kids and adults in equal measure. There's the fascinating behind-the-scenes studio tour, then dozens of rides and attractions to enjoy afterward. Some of the popular areas of the park include the newer "Wizarding World of Harry Potter" (beloved by all), several Simpsons attractions, and the wonderful "Despicable Me: Minion Mayhem" ride. Don’t forget to explore Universal CityWalk after you’re done with all the rides and attractions – it’s a great evening activity with food, dining, and entertainment options. Getting In: Admission to Universal Studios Hollywood is included with the 3-, 5-, and 7-Day Go Los Angeles® Cards. Soak up Celebrity Culture Explore Griffith Park Visit Santa Monica Roam Seasonal Gardens While it is a little bit of a hike from downtown Los Angeles (you can actually get there via mass transit, however, it’s just a longish ride), the Huntington Library is a fabulous attraction that combines the appeal of a historic research library, an art gallery, luxurious gardens, and literary artifacts all into one inspiring destination. Be sure to explore the gardens in particular this time of year – the roses are spectacular. Visitors might also enjoy the "Orbit Pavilion," a garden art installation that echoes the shapes and sounds of the International Space Station and 19 Earth satellites. It was even designed by people who work at NASA! Getting In: Admission the Huntington Library and Gardens is included with the Go Los Angeles® Card. Local EventsLA Times Festival of Books USC Campus April This is one for the book lovers. The LA Times Festival of Books is a fantastic free event that promises tons of bookish fun and excitement. In addition to dozens of famous author readings and signings, you’ll also enjoy special workshops, professional talks, and of course, plenty of books for sale. Getting In: Admission to the LA Times Festival of Books is free. Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival Santa Clara April PPLA Food Fare Santa Monica Known for being the oldest culinary event in Los Angeles, the PPLA Food Fare brings together over one hundred restaurants, chefs, caterers, wineries, bakeries, and more. From high-end cuisine to inventive food trucks, you’ll be able to sample cuisine from all across the city at this fantastic event. Getting In: Admission to the PPLA Food Fare is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Los Angeles® Card. For more information, please visit the event website. Cherry Blossom Festival Monterey Park April Few things signal the onset of spring quite like the fragrant blooming of the delicate cherry blossom. This year in Los Angeles, the Cherry Blossom Festival in the nearby city of Monterey Park will be the place to celebrate these delightful natural wonders. Enjoy musical performances, guided nature walks, delicious food, and even origami classes. Getting In: Admission to the Cherry Blossom Festival is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Los Angeles® Card. For more information, please visit the event website. Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival Various locations May Remember to Save on Admission Did we miss anything? A few things to do in Los Angeles in the spring, including some special events, other seasonal activities in April, May, and June. Please note, the spring events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not available with the Go Los Angeles® Card. We hope you consider adding some of these fun ideas to your spring vacation itinerary.
Katie Sagal

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.