Perfect 2-day Itinerary in Los Angeles | Ultimate Trip

This blog is about the perfect 2-day Los Angeles itinerary.

I love visiting Lost Angeles, the city of Angels. It’s also, where my dad’s favorite baseball team is, the Dodgers! I’ve been going since I was a kid and always loved this West Coast city. 

There’s SO much to see and do here that two days hardly seems like enough, but if that’s all the time you’ve got this blog will make sure you hit all the best spots in the Los Angeles area. Whether you’re looking to catch some iconic sights or you just want to soak up LA’s unique vibe, use this guide as your itinerary for the best things to do for a two-day trip to Los Angeles! 

Before You Go

When you’re planning your visit to LA, picking the right time to hit up popular spots can seriously enhance your experience. To avoid the crowds at places like the Griffith Observatory or Santa Monica Pier, try visiting early on weekday mornings. You’ll get those perfect, crowd-free photos and a more laid-back experience. Beaches are best enjoyed either early in the morning or late in the afternoon during weekdays if you’re hoping to skip the weekend crowd.

Navigating LA might feel daunting, even as a New Yorker, I’m used to a completely different public transit system. Honestly, LA’s public transportation isn’t quite on par with NYC’s. So, for a short stay, I recommend renting a car. This way, you have the flexibility to explore the city on your own schedule without the limitations of the local transit system. Staying somewhere central like West Hollywood, Hollywood Hills, or Downtown LA can also cut down your commute times significantly, placing you right where the action is! So you spend less time in traffic and more time exploring Los Angeles! 

Perfect 2-day Los Angeles itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Heart of Los Angeles + Iconic Landmarks

Morning: Hollywood and Surrounding Areas

First, you’re going to start at the Hollywood Walk of Fame, located on the historic Hollywood Boulevard. The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of Los Angeles’ most famous landmarks, attracting millions of visitors each year! 

Here’s what you can see and experience at the Hollywood Walk of Fame:

Stars on the Sidewalk: The most iconic feature is the stars embedded in the sidewalk. Each star honors the biggest names of celebrities for their contributions to entertainment, including film, television, music, radio, and theatre. There are over 2,700 stars, so you might find some of your favorite celebrities!

The Dolby Theatre: Home to the annual Academy Awards (Oscars), the Dolby Theatre offers tours that allow you to see an iconic venue in cinematic history up close.

Live Entertainment and Street Performers: The Walk of Fame is often filled with street performers and impersonators, from superheroes to famous movie characters, adding a lively atmosphere to the area.

            Tip: If you’re going to take photos with any of these characters, be prepared to tip them! 

The Hollywood & Highland Center: This shopping and entertainment center offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including a great view of the Hollywood sign. It’s a perfect spot to grab a bite or do a little shopping while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of Hollywood. Plus, the view of the Hollywood sign is not just iconic, it’s the perfect backdrop for those must-have LA selfies!

The El Capitan Theatre: An exclusively Disney-operated theatre, it hosts many of Disney’s premiere events and film releases, often featuring props, costumes, and sets from the movies. It’s like stepping into a Disney bubble, with a chance to see exclusive displays and even catch some live performances. If you’re a Disney fan, this is an absolute must-visit for a truly memorable experience.

Museums and Attractions: Nearby, you’ll find attractions like the Hollywood Wax Museum, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, and the Hollywood Museum, which hosts mementos from classic Hollywood cinema. These spots are great for diving deeper into the quirks and charm of Hollywood. Whether you want to snap a pic with wax figures of your favorite stars or explore unique items from around the world, there is something intriguing around every corner.

After you’re done walking around those iconic Hollywood sites, you’re going to take a quick visit to the TCL Chinese Theatre. This historic movie palace is famous for its celebrity handprints, footprints, and autographs set in concrete in the forecourt. There are over 200 handprints, footprints, and autographs in the front of the building. (This part can honestly take all day if you really want it to).

After all of that walking, you’ll need some breakfast! 

Here are some great breakfast options on Hollywood Boulevard:

Morning Kitchen: This is an affordable breakfast option with your standard coffee, tea, smoothies, eggs, and crepes! 

Location: 

•  5634 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

BOLT EaHo: A cozy neighborhood cafe with backyard seating, perfect for a quick bite. They have breakfast burritos and sandwiches, and vegetarian and vegan options, like their avocado toast and vegetarian breakfast sandwich. 

Location: 

•   5648 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028

Next Stop: Griffith Observatory

The next stop on your trip is the Griffith Observatory, located in Griffith Park. This is one of my favorite places to visit! It’s a must-visit for the best city views of Los Angeles! The views include the Los Angeles Basin, which includes Downtown LA to the southeast, Hollywood to the south, and the Pacific Ocean. 

The Griffith Observatory is the best way to get Instagrammable photos of your trip. Take your rental car, and definitely come early to avoid the crowds.  

Location

• 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027

If you’re interested in spending a few hours, I recommend checking out the various trails in Griffith Park! LA is known for its hiking, and it’s no joke! I’ve done some trials and felt very sore afterward. So make sure you bring comfy shoes, LOTS of water, and sunscreen. 

Some Popular Hikes:

• Griffith Park Observatory Trails Peak
• Glendale Peak
• Firebreak Trail to Griffith Observatory
• Cathy’s Corner

They also have the Los Angeles Zoo in the park! It’s a great place to bring your kids and spend time visiting the various zoo animals. There’s so much you can do at Griffith Park, you can make a day out of it, so plan well when making your itinerary guide for must-visit locations! 

Afternoon: Cultural Deep Dive

Once you’re done with the Griffith Observatory, it’s time to get some lunch at the Grand Central Market, located in downtown LA. It’s an iconic food court with food from all over the world. They have cuisines like American, Mexican, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, vegan options, ice cream, drinks, and so much more! 

Location

•  317 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90013

Once you’re done with the market, you can visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA). It’s on Museum Row next to La Brea Tar Pits, another great museum. LACMA was founded in 1961. It’s the perfect place to explore various exhibits, get out of the LA heat, and take in some culture. Tickets are $28 per person. 

Location:

• 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Evening: Sunset and Shopping

Now you can’t visit LA and not drive down Sunset Boulevard! Take a break from walking, and use your car to drive down this iconic road and take some photos for your memories and the gram. It’s a great way to explore LA and has some of the best views of the city. 

For dinner and some shopping to end your first day, head over to The Grove! It’s a great spot for high-end shopping, trendy restaurants, and even to catch a movie! 

Location:

• 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036

Dinner Options:

Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill: This spot is known for its sushi and sashimi but also offers delightful fried chicken wings with wasabi honey sauce. It’s a good choice for a slightly upscale dining experience.

La Piazza: If you prefer Italian cuisine, La Piazza offers a lively atmosphere with good people-watching opportunities. It’s a nice place for a date night or with a large group!

The Fountain Bar: This bar is perfect for a lighter meal or drinks, they offer a cozy outdoor setting with a variety of fancy bar snacks and well-made martinis.

Laduree The Grove: For a touch of French flair, Laduree provides a charming seating area perfect for enjoying delicious pastries and desserts, perfect for after dinner!

The Cheesecake Factory: A popular chain that offers an extensive menu suited for people who want an affordable but delicious meal!

Alma: This Mexican spot is managed by a successful restaurant group from Mexico City, offering a stylish place to enjoy a drink and some snacks, particularly known for its chips and salsa!

Must-Visit Stores:

• Nordstrom
• Apple Store
• Nike
• Anthropologie
• Michael Kors
• Sephora
• Topshop/Topman
• Coach
• Ray-Ban
• David Yurman

After you’ve had enough time shopping and enjoying your dinner, then head back to your hotel and get ready for a busy second day visiting one of the best places, Santa Monica, Venice Beach, and Beverly Hills! 

Day 2: Santa Monica + Venice Beach and Iconic Neighborhoods

You can’t visit LA without heading to its iconic beaches! Let’s start your day with an Ocean Front Walk at Venice Beach. Spend your morning enjoying the fresh beach air! Now you can either take the Pacific Coast Highway to my favorite beach, Santa Monica, or walk along the beach, it takes less than an hour! My personal favorite option is renting a bike (or two-seater) and biking down the scenic boardwalk! 

Santa Monica Beach has a special place in my heart. I LOVE the iconic Pacific Park on the Santa Monica Pier! It includes the famous Ferris Wheel and the roller coaster at their oceanfront amusement park, which is a great option for viewing the beach! Prices range from $8 – $15 per ride. 

After your fun in the Pacific Park, you can also do a short walk to their restaurants for some brunch!

Brunch Options in Santa Monica:

1. Café Gratitude Venice: A cafe that offers a variety of vegan options with dishes like buffalo cauliflower wings and a selection of wholesome bowls and beverages.
2. True Food Kitchen: Known for its health-conscious menu, True Food Kitchen provides great vegan choices alongside contemporary American dishes. 
3. The Misfit Restaurant + Bar: Offers a menu with bottomless mimosas and features vegan options. It’s a place with a lively atmosphere, perfect for weekend brunches. 
4. Huckleberry Bakery & Cafe: A popular spot for sweets & breakfast pastries and sandwiches that are famous! 
5. Coast: One of my favorite options! It’s an ocean-view hotel restaurant at Shutters, that has great food options like seafood, Mexican, and American, with great drinks! 

Afternoon: Rodeo Drive + Beverly Hills

Once you’re done with the beach, I highly recommend driving down Rodeo Drive! It’s a two-mile-long street in Beverly Hills. It’s famous for being one of the most expensive streets in the world! It’s perfect for some window shopping and Celeb-spotting! 

If you’re tired from all the driving, take a break and buy tickets for a celebrity tour bus. These tours are a fantastic way to see the homes of the rich and famous without having to navigate the winding roads yourself. You can choose from a variety of tours—some offer multimedia presentations, while others might give you a more personalized, small-group experience. It’s a great way to relax your feet and still feel like you’re in the middle of all the action.

1. Los Angeles: Celebrity Homes and Hollywood Open-Air Bus Tour – This tour offers a great first overview of LA, covering celebrity homes and key city landmarks with open-air bus travel. It’s perfect for getting a comprehensive feel of Hollywood and Beverly Hills.
2. Los Angeles Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour: This flexible sightseeing tour allows you to explore Los Angeles at your own pace with the convenience of a hop-on hop-off bus service. With options for a 1 or 2-day pass, you can visit iconic spots like Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Santa Monica. The tour offers comprehensive routes that cover the must-see attractions, making it ideal for those who want the freedom to customize their sightseeing itinerary.
3. Celebrity Homes Tour – Hollywood and Beverly Hills: Dive into the glamorous world of Hollywood on this celebrity homes tour. This guided excursion takes you through the lush neighborhoods of Beverly Hills and Hollywood, where you can catch a glimpse of the residences of today’s top stars and legends from the golden age of cinema. This tour offers a unique insight into the lifestyles of the rich and famous, enriched by stories and anecdotes that bring these exclusive areas to life.

Each of these tours provides a unique way to explore the glamorous side of Los Angeles, focusing on celebrity culture and iconic landmarks. If you’re thinking of booking a tour, definitely book before your trip! It saves you time and helps you plan.

Down to explore more of Beverly Hills? Check out these options!

1. Wander Around Greystone Mansion: Check out this stunning estate with its gorgeous gardens and beautiful architecture. (Perfect for pretending you’re in a movie for a day)
2. Hang Out at Beverly Gardens Park: This spot is perfect for a relaxing walk or a quick photo op with the iconic Beverly Hills Sign. It’s a great place to unwind and take in some greenery, in the busy city!
3. Discover Art: Dive into Beverly Hills’ art scene with a visit to local galleries or catch an art show if you time it right.
4. Eat Like a Star: Experience some of the best dining Beverly Hills has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a luxury meal or just a chic place for drinks, you’ll find plenty of fantastic options in Beverly Hills!

Late Afternoon: The Getty Center

Next stop is The Getty Center! This place isn’t just a museum; it’s an architectural gem perched on a hilltop with views that are as stunning as the art inside. Take your time wandering through the impressive collections of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. The garden is a must-see too, so make sure you stroll around and enjoy the peaceful landscapes and incredible views of Los Angeles.

After soaking in all that art, why not cruise through West Hollywood and along the Sunset Strip? It’s a quick drive, but this iconic stretch is lined with legendary music venues, vibrant billboards, and bustling eateries. Even a short drive-by will give you a taste of the area’s electric atmosphere. If you’ve got time, pull over and enjoy a coffee or a bite in one of the trendy spots—it’s the perfect way to wrap up an eventful day.

Evening: Wrap-Up in Downtown Los Angeles

End your day with a fun night in Downtown Los Angeles. This area is bustling with a variety of dining options, ranging from casual eats to upscale dining establishments. Whether you’re craving something innovative or a classic dish done right, Downtown LA is the place to find it! For a special treat, try one of the rooftop restaurants where the food is matched by breathtaking city views.

If you’re up to it consider catching a performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, which is known for its stunning architecture and amazing acoustics. Alternatively, the Arts District is perfect for a relaxed evening, offering a vibrant scene with galleries and street art to enjoy as you walk off your meal. It’s a great way to experience the creative side of LA by night.

Final Thoughts: Perfect 2-day Los Angeles Itinerary

In just two days, you’ve experienced some of the best Los Angeles has to offer—from the artistic heights of The Getty Center to the bustling streets of Downtown LA and the iconic sights along West Hollywood and Sunset Strip. Each location provides a distinct taste of LA’s diverse lifestyle, rich in cultural and amazing local cuisines!

Los Angeles is a city that never stands still, continuously offering new attractions and experiences. With its unique arts scene, ever-evolving dining options, and perfect weather, there’s always more to explore and countless reasons to return. Definitely a city that you have to see more than once! 

Enjoyed this blog? Check out my other blogs here:  

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• 5 Things To Know Before Studying Abroad
• 6 Best Cheap Places To Travel in April in Europe
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