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The BEST 2 Day Los Angeles Itinerary: Epic Weekend in LA

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A 2 day Los Angeles itinerary is a great way to get the most out of this incredible city.

With so many iconic landmarks and attractions, it can be overwhelming to cover the main highlights of Los Angeles in 2 days.

Los Angeles is simply one of those cities where there’s always something new to discover on every corner.

The City of Angels is renowned for its Hollywood glamour, beautiful sandy beaches, and sprawling urban parks, and it’s no wonder it’s one of the best getaways on the West Coast.

This 2 days in Los Angeles guide will take you on a journey through some of the most iconic and interesting neighborhoods.

From world-famous attractions to delicious foodie spots, you’ll see it all during your 2 days in LA getaway.

But before we jump into this epic Los Angeles 2 days itinerary, let’s go over some practical tips and information to help you make the most of your time.

  

Tall palm trees and downtown view with pink and yellow sunset for a 2 day Los Angeles itinerary.

Just another beautiful view for your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary. 🌴☀️

About This 2 Day Los Angeles Itinerary

This 2 day Los Angeles itinerary is designed for an adventurous weekend getaway, and it doesn’t include any theme parks because you won’t have time for them.

(You’ll have to save those for another visit to LA. Now you have a reason to return!)

When I’m on a USA weekend trip, I like to get the most out of my quick getaway and discover every nook and cranny of the city.

That’s why I jam-packed this guide full of things to do so you feel like you’re getting a good dose of LA in 2 days.

But this Los Angeles 2 days itinerary will be just as enjoyable for laid-back travelers who prefer a slow pace.

You can pick and choose what appeals to you the most and explore at your own pace.

Lastly, I’ve included some super helpful tips and nuggets of information toward the end of the post to ensure you have an amazing weekend trip to LA. Don’t forget to read those and make sure you’re well-prepared!

Los Angeles 2 Days Itinerary Overview

Here’s a quick overview of this 2 day Los Angeles itinerary.

  • Day 1: You’ll spend the first day exploring the classic gems of LA, which include the Griffith Observatory, the Hollywood Sign, the Hollywood Walk of Fame, The Grove, The Original Farmers Market, the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), Beverly Hills, Rodeo Drive, and the Sunset Strip.
  • Day 2: On day two, you’ll explore the beaches and downtown LA. You’ll see Malibu, the Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach, Marina Del Rey, Grand Central Market, Bradbury Building, Olvera Street, and Union Station.

2 Day Los Angeles Itinerary Map

Map of the best things to do in Los Angeles in 2 days.

Map of the best things to do in Los Angeles in 2 days.

To help you visualize your 2 days in Los Angeles getaway, here’s a map of all the attractions and neighborhoods included in this itinerary.

You can use the map to plan out your routes between destinations and make sure you don’t miss anything important.

Click on the map to enlarge it or print it off to take with you on the go.

The Best 2 Day Los Angeles Itinerary

To minimize drive time and maximize sightseeing, I’ve organized your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary based on the proximity of the attractions and neighborhoods.

Let’s be real — you don’t want to spend most of your day stuck in the famous LA traffic, and I’m not going to send you on a wild goose chase.

Now that we have some important and basic tidbits covered, let’s get into this 2 day Los Angeles itinerary!

Bon voyage, and have the best Los Angeles trip ever!

Day 1 in LA: Explore Classic Los Angeles Attractions

To make sure you get the most out of this 2 day Los Angeles itinerary, I highly recommend getting your day started no later than 8 am.

That way, you’ll have plenty of time to fit in all the attractions and take your time at the ones you love the most.

Griffith Observatory

Griffith Observatory in front of tall buildings at dusk during 2 days in Los Angeles.

Griffith Observatory is a must-see when spending 2 days in Los Angeles.

You’ll start your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary at the infamous Griffith Observatory.

Nestled atop Mount Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory is a facility dedicated to public astronomy.

Opened in 1935, the observatory is home to a planetarium, telescopes, and exhibitions on space and science.

It’s also one of LA’s most popular filming locations, and you may have seen it in movies like “La La Land” and “Rebel Without a Cause.”

In addition to its impressive art deco architecture and educational opportunities, the Griffith Observatory offers stunning views of Los Angeles from its outdoor terraces.

On a clear day, you can see for miles in every direction. You can see all the way from downtown LA to Catalina Island!

📌 Pro Tip: Admission to the observatory is free, making it a great budget-friendly activity for visitors to LA. As such, it can get pretty crowded during the day, so I recommend visiting it as early as possible.

Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood Sign perched on the hillside during a 2 days in Los Angeles trip.

2 days in Los Angeles: the Hollywood Sign

Next up on our 2 day Los Angeles itinerary is the iconic Hollywood Sign.

This world-famous landmark is an instantly recognizable symbol of the city and has been featured in countless movies and shows.

The best way to see the Hollywood Sign is by taking a hike up to Mount Lee, which will give you some great views of downtown and the sign itself.

There are a few different trails you can take that range in difficulty. I recommend the Official Hollywood Sign Walking Tour, where a guide takes you all the way up behind the sign and teaches you about its history and significance.

If you’re not keen on hiking, you can see the sign from Ovation Hollywood (formerly known as Hollywood & Highland) or the Griffith Observatory.

📌 Pro Tip: I think the best view of the Hollywood Sign is from 3000 Canyon Lake Drive. Put this address in your GPS, and you’ll get the perfect photo here.

👇 More Hollywood Sign tours: 

 

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Pink stars on the ground along the Hollywood Walk of Fame for a Los Angeles 2 days itinerary.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of the most iconic attractions on this Los Angeles 2 days itinerary.

No 2 day Los Angeles itinerary would be complete without a stop at the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame is a collection of over 2600 brass and terrazzo five-pointed stars embedded in the sidewalks along fifteen blocks of Hollywood Boulevard and three blocks of Vine Street in Hollywood, California.

The stars are permanent public monuments to achievements in the entertainment industry and are intended as a tribute to artists who have made significant contributions to the field throughout their careers. 

Obviously, you’ll be looking down most of the time, but look out for historic landmarks like the TCL Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel.

Since you’re only spending 2 days in LA, I suggest walking a few blocks or picking out some stars you want to see and then taking a photo.

You’ll be able to get all the sights and sounds of Hollywood in just a fraction of the time!

📌 Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a particular celebrity star but don’t know where it is, use the interactive map on the Hollywood Walk of Fame website.

The Grove

A fountain in the middle of an outdoor mall known as the The Grove for LA in 2 days.

The Grove is the perfect place to spend an evening during your LA in 2 days getaway.

The Grove is a little slice of heaven in the heart of Los Angeles and is a must-visit on any 2 day Los Angeles itinerary.

This open-air mall features a unique blend of high-end retailers, dining options, and entertainment choices, all set against the backdrop of beautiful Southern California weather.

One of the best things about The Grove is that it has a park-like setting, and it’s the perfect place to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy some time in the sun.

There is also an outdoor amphitheater where you can catch live music or shows throughout the year.

Trust me — grabbing lunch at the Grove or doing some serious damage to your wallet is an experience you won’t want to miss!

The Original Farmers Market

Christmas decorations and evening view of The Original Farmers Market for 2 days in LA.

If you get the chance to spend 2 days in LA around the holidays, the Original Farmers Market feels like a winter wonderland.

The Original Farmers Market is just a quick two-minute walk away from The Grove and is a great place to grab a mid-afternoon coffee or pick up some souvenirs on your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary.

The market dates back to 1934, and it began as a way for farmers to sell their produce directly to consumers.

Today, the market is home to over 100 businesses, including gourmet food vendors, casual eateries, and unique shops selling everything from books to jewelry. 

You have to try a bacon and egg empanada and a Dulce de Leche empanada from Nonna’s Empanadas. They’re seriously life-changing.

📌 Pro Tip: The majority of the businesses at the market accept credit cards, but there are a few that are cash only, so make sure you have some cash on you.

Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Rows of lit lampposts at night at the Urban Light installation at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

Urban Light at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art

Have you watched the movies, “No String Attached” and “La La Land?” If so, do you remember the scenes with all of the light posts?

Well, that scene was shot at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, and the collection of light posts is known as “Urban Light.”

This piece, created by American artist Chris Burden, comprises 202 antique street lamps from the 1920s and 1930s and has become an iconic symbol of Los Angeles.

The lamps were all collected from around the city and refurbished, making them a unique piece of art that captures both the industrial history of Los Angeles and the vibrancy of its present.

The best time to visit the Urban Light is at night when it’s lit up, but it’s also worth seeing during the day when you can get a good look at all the different lamps.

And if you can spare a little room to add the actual museum to your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary, it’s absolutely worth a visit.

The Los Angeles County Museum of Art is home to over 145,000 works from around the world and features a variety of impressive exhibitions. 

Beverly Hills and Rodeo Drive

Two Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills which is an outdoor shopping center with cobblestone streets and luxury stores.

Even though this is a 2 day Los Angeles itinerary, Two Rodeo Drive will make you feel like you’ve been transported to Europe.

Rodeo Drive is one of the most iconic streets in the world and delivers an unforgettable experience when exploring Los Angeles in 2 days.

Located in the posh Beverly Hills neighborhood of LA, Rodeo Drive is known for its luxury shops and high-end restaurants.

It’s home to high-end fashion brands like Gucci, Valentino, and Louis Vuitton, as well as jewelers like Tiffany & Co. and Harry Winston.

Even if you don’t want to partake in the bougie shopping experience on your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary, it’s fun to window shop and people watch.

Be sure to take a peek at the Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel. This stunning and vintage hotel was featured in the iconic movie, “Pretty Woman.”

The Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills with a pink blossoming tree in front of it.

Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel

Afterward, pop in across the street to Two Rodeo Drive, a luxurious outdoor shopping center that has a European-like atmosphere with its cobblestone sidewalks.

Another site you’ll want to check out in the area is House of Bijan. Here you’ll find the legendary yellow Rolls Royce that everyone snaps selfies with.

House of Bijan is the most expensive store in the world, and you can’t walk into this menswear store unless you have an appointment.

📌 Pro Tip: This Beverly Hills Segway Tour is a unique and exciting way to explore the area. You’ll also get to ride by some lavish celebrity homes.

Sunset Strip

Sunset Strip and Hollywood street view with bars and shops on both sides with the sun setting in the background.

Sunset Strip

You’ll end your day 1 of your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary on the Sunset Strip. (Or you can keep the adventure going and visit some more LA attractions).

If you’re looking for a place to party in LA, look no further than this 1.7-mile stretch that runs through West Hollywood.

This is the place to come if you want to dance all night and (hopefully) rub elbows with celebrities.

Some iconic venues include Bar Marmont, The Rainbow Room, and Whiskey a Go Go. If you want to keep it low-key, you’ll enjoy The Roxy Theatre and The Comedy Store.

Pro Tip: If you have late-night munchies after partying, you’ll want to indulge in a greasy burger or Debbie’s Chili Fries at Mel’s Drive-In. It’s a quick five-minute taxi ride from the Sunset Strip, and it’s sooooo delicious. Don’t forget to order a malt!

Day 2 in LA: Discover the Beaches and Downtown

That was an exciting first day in LA, wasn’t it?

On the final day of your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary, you’ll explore the beautiful beach towns nearby and Downtown LA.

To make it easier for you, you’ll start at the northernmost beach town on this list and then work your way down.

After you’re finished beach hopping, you’ll get to see all that the downtown area offers.

Malibu

Aerial view of the Pacific Ocean shoreline in Malibu with houses dotting the beach.

Don’t forget to visit Malibu on your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary. I mean, just look at this view! 😍

Just a stone’s throw away from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles is the beach town of Malibu.

With its gorgeous beaches, incredible restaurants, and many activities, this California beach town has something for everyone.

One of the most popular things to do in Malibu is to hit the beach. With over 27 miles of coastline, Zuma Beach is one of the more popular beaches because of its wide stretch of sand and surfing waves.

In addition to its beaches, Malibu is also home to several state parks and nature reserves, including Topanga State Park, Point Mugu State Park, and Leo Carrillo State Park.

If you want to spend more time in Malibu, go on a wine hike. This easy-to-moderate hike will reward you with gorgeous sweeping ocean views and R&R at a vineyard.

Last but not least, check out the Malibu Pier. Toward the end of the pier is a cafe, so grab an iced latte and linger a while.

Santa Monica

A ferris wheel and a pier on the beach at sunset which is the Santa Monica Pier.

Santa Monica Pier at sunset 

Continue your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary by cruising down the Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) to Santa Monica, another popular beach town.

The Santa Monica Pier is the true highlight here. Built in 1909, the pier is home to an array of shops, restaurants, and amusement park rides like the Pacific Wheel.

Before you leave Santa Monica, head over to Palisades Park. It’s another popular attraction in Santa Monica, and it offers incredible views of the coast, as well as several hiking and walking trails.

If you want to do a little shopping, you’ll love Third Street Promenade. This pedestrian-only stretch of road is lined with stores, cafes, and street performers, making it one of the liveliest places in Santa Monica.

Venice Beach

A boardwalk with shops on one side and palm trees on another which is the Ocean Front Walk in Venice Beach.

Ocean Front Walk in Venice Beach

Just a few blocks away from Third Street Promenade is Venice Beach — one of the best beaches in the USA and an absolute must-visit on this 2 day Los Angeles itinerary.

This beach town has a unique vibe and culture compared to its predecessors, Malibu and Santa Monica.

No visit to Venice Beach would be complete without a stroll down the world-famous Venice Boardwalk.

This 2-mile stretch of pavement is lined with vendors selling everything from souvenirs to art, as well as food carts serving up delicious snacks. Don’t forget to stop and listen to some of the street performers along the way!

Muscle Beach is one of the most popular spots on Venice Beach, thanks to its outdoor weightlifting cages and muscle-bound men getting their workout in.

Canal lined with houses and small canoes which are the Venice Canals in Venice, California.

Venice Canals in Venice, California

Next, head over to the Venice Beach Skate Park. It’s a great place to watch some talented skateboarders show off their skills.

But don’t get too close to them. I was smacked in the elbow with a skateboard, which hurt for days.

Finally, the Venice Canals are man-made waterways that were built in 1905 as part of an effort to create a freshwater alternative to nearby ocean water.

Today, the canals are a beautiful place to walk and take photos. Be sure to look for the bridge that crosses over one of the canals; it’s one of the most popular photo spots in Venice!

Marina del Rey

Aerial view of boats in Marina Del Rey, California.

Marina Del Rey is the perfect addition to any 2 day Los Angeles itinerary.

Let’s keep trekking south and make a stop at Marina del Rey. It’s one of the more unique beach settings you’ll encounter during your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary.

You’ll love Marina del Rey because it feels like it’s a world away from the craziness of LA, but it’s still close enough to the city.

This town was home to the largest man-made harbor in North America and was originally founded as a seaside resort town.

One of the main highlights here is Fisherman’s Village. This charming waterfront community is home to various shops and restaurants, as well as a lively marina where you can watch the boats come and go.

Burton Chace Park is a local favorite and offers gorgeous views of the marina. It’s a tranquil setting that will make you fall in love with Marina del Rey’s natural beauty.

Of course, no trip to Marina del Rey would be complete without indulging in some delicious seafood. The area is home to numerous restaurants serving fresh catches from the Pacific Ocean.

One of my favorites is The Warehouse Restaurant, which offers hearty seafood dishes like crab cakes and fish and chips in a casual setting.

Grand Central Market

The interior of Grand Central Market in Los Angeles with a Mexican eatery.

One of the best things to do in Los Angeles in 2 days is eating your way through Grand Central Market.

We’ll begin our Downtown LA adventure by exploring Grand Central Market. It’s a hidden gem in LA for tourists, but it’s a staple of LA life for locals.

Grand Central Market is a mecca for foodies from all over the world, and this historic market has been serving the city since 1917 with no signs of slowing down.

The market is home to over 40 stalls offering everything from freshly-baked bread to gourmet cheeses to authentic street tacos.

You can find everything from fresh produce to delicious hand-crafted foods and grab a coffee or drink from one of the many bars and restaurants on-site.

If you’re in the mood for something savory, try an egg sandwich from Eggslut and the chicken and waffles from Lucky Bird. Trust me — they’re worth the line!

Bradbury Building

The classical interior of the Bradbury Building in Downtown LA with light coming through the roof.

The Victorian charm of the Bradbury Building’s interior

Located in the heart of Downtown Los Angeles, the Bradbury Building is a historic landmark that’s well worth a visit. You won’t see another building quite like it on this 2 day Los Angeles itinerary.

It’s one of the few buildings in Los Angeles that’s remained largely unchanged since it was first built in 1893.

Stepping inside the Bradbury Building is like taking a step back in time — which is why it’s been used as a filming location for so many period pieces over the years. 

The building’s five stories are supported by an iron frame, which allows the huge windows to fill the interior with natural light.

The atrium is breathtaking, with its series of sky bridges and ornate wrought-iron railings.

Whether you’re a history buff, an architecture lover, or just looking for something unique to add to your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary, be sure to add the Bradbury Building to your list! 

Olvera Street

Restaurants and small shops along Olvera Street in Los Angeles.

Olvera Street

Olvera Street is the perfect place to get a taste of old-school Los Angeles. It’s the city’s oldest street, and it was once the site of the first Spanish settlement in LA.

These days, it’s a vibrant pedestrian market that’s full of vendors selling everything from handmade jewelry to traditional Mexican food.

Speaking of food, the food on Olvera Street is some of the best you’ll find in Los Angeles! Be sure to try the tacos al pastor and taquitos at one of the many taquerias. So, so good!

In addition to being a great place to eat, Olvera Street is also a hub for cultural events and celebrations. On any given day, you’ll find live music and dance performances.

Union Station

Tall palm trees in front of Union Station in Los Angeles.

An architectural masterpiece for you to add to your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary: Union Station

We’ve reached the final destination of our 2 day Los Angeles itinerary — Union Station.

Built in 1939, Union Station is one of the last great train stations built in America and is a mix of Mission Revival, Spanish Colonial Revival, and Art Deco Styles.

At the time of its completion, Union Station was considered one of the most modern and innovative train stations in the world. 

In addition to being a transportation hub and a shopping/dining destination, Union Station is also home to several art installations. Be sure to take a few minutes to explore the station and enjoy some of LA’s finest public art.

And that completes your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary! 

Are 2 Days in Los Angeles Enough?

LA is one of those cities that I can’t get enough of. No matter how much time I spend there, I still feel like I’m finding new hidden gems every day.

That being said, Los Angeles in 2 days is the perfect amount of time to get a taste of the city.

We’ve only scratched the surface with this 2 day Los Angeles itinerary, but if you follow it closely, you’ll experience some of the best food, culture, and history that Los Angeles offers.

Fiery orange skies with the Los Angeles skyline.

2 days in LA is the perfect amount of time to explore the major attractions in the city.

How to Get to Los Angeles

The most common way to get to Los Angeles is by plane. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is one of the busiest airports in the world, so there are many direct flights available from major cities all over the United States.

Alternatively, you can fly into Hollywood Burbank Airport in Burbank, which is about a 25-minute drive to LA.

Another option for getting to Los Angeles is by train. Amtrak offers several different routes that end at Los Angeles Union Station.

You can also drive to Los Angeles from almost anywhere in the US. A road trip to LA can be a great adventure. No matter where you’re coming from, many interstate highways lead into Los Angeles.

How to Get Around Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a huge city, and getting around can be daunting if you don’t know your way around.

The easiest way to get around LA during your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary is by renting a car (if you’re not road-tripping there). That way, you can explore the city as you please.

I recommend renting a car through Discover Cars because you can compare multiple rental car companies’ prices and policies in one spot.

👉 Shop rental cars for your 2 days in Los Angeles getaway!

📌 Pro Tip: Be sure to brush up on your parallel parking skills before hitting the streets of LA, and pay attention to the parking meters!

If you’re not up for dealing with LA’s notorious traffic, you can use Uber or Lyft. Just be sure to check the fare estimate before requesting a ride, so there are no surprises regarding the price.

The Hollywood Sign from the hillside overlooking Los Angeles.

The infamous Hollywood Sign

Best Time to Visit Los Angeles

LA is billed as a year-round destination, and for good reason! It’s tough to go wrong weather-wise.

Remember that summer is peak season in LA, so expect slightly higher prices for hotels and flights. In addition, if you don’t prefer scorching temperatures and high humidity, summer may not be the best time for your 2 days in Los Angeles getaway.

Contrary to popular belief, it does get cold in Los Angeles during wintertime! However, the temperatures are still mild compared to other parts of the country. Just be sure to pack a jacket for those chilly nights.

Fall and spring are great times to visit LA because the temperatures are perfect, and the hotel prices are relatively lower since it’s not peak tourist season yet.

All in all, there is no bad time of year to visit Los Angeles. While each season has its perks, it ultimately comes down to your preferences.

The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel in Los Angeles with its white exterior under blue skies.

The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is one of many accommodation options for a Los Angeles 2 days itinerary.

Where to Stay for 2 Days in LA

LA is a huge city with many different neighborhoods and areas to explore.

When it comes time to book your hotel for your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary, it’s important to choose an area that’s close to the attractions you want to see and that fits your overall travel style.

I’ve detailed a few of LA’s top neighborhoods below to help you decide where to stay, and have included a list of hotels for each neighborhood to help with your trip planning.

Whether you want a luxurious stay or something a little more low-key, you’ll find it on my list of recommended hotels.

📍 Downtown Los Angeles: Downtown Los Angeles is the perfect place to stay if you want to be in the thick of things. There are plenty of hotels, restaurants, and bars to keep you entertained. You’ll also be close to popular tourist attractions like the Staples Center and Dodger Stadium. If you’re looking for nightlife, Downtown LA is the place for you. 

>>> Search rates and availability for hotels in Downtown Los Angeles.

📍 Hollywood: Hollywood is a great place to stay if you want to be centrally located and close to all the action. There are plenty of hotels in the area, and you’ll be within walking distance of popular attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the Griffith Observatory. Hollywood is also home to many great restaurants and bars, so there’s always something to do here.

>>> Search rates and availability for hotels in Hollywood

📍 Venice Beach/Santa Monica: Venice Beach and Santa Monica are located on the West side of LA and offer a more relaxed vibe. They’re great places to stay if you want to be close to the beach and soak up some sunshine. Venice Beach is home to the iconic boardwalk, while Santa Monica has its pier with plenty of shops, restaurants, and activities.

>>> Search rates and availability for hotels in Santa Monica

>>> Search rates and availability for hotels in Venice Beach

📍 Beverly Hills: If luxury is what you’re after, Beverly Hills is the place to stay. Here you can find world-class hotels and restaurants, as well as some of LA’s best shopping. You’ll also be close to attractions like Rodeo Drive.

>>> Search rates and availability for hotels in Beverly Hills

Best Tours for Los Angeles in 2 Days

If you’re looking for an easy way to explore LA in 2 days, why not take a tour? There are plenty of tours that will show you the best of LA in a short amount of time.

👇 Here are a few of my favorites you’ll love!

 


 

Helpful Tips for Spending a Weekend in LA

No matter how you decide to spend 2 days in LA, here are a few of my top tips to make your trip even better.

  • Pack comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so you’ll want to ensure you have comfortable shoes that can handle all your sightseeing.
  • Eat all the food you can. LA is known for its amazing food, so make sure you take advantage of the delicious offerings. When I go to LA, I eat every hour I’m awake. It’s my favorite thing to do in LA. Some of my favorite restaurants are Republique (go for brunch and get the kimchi fried rice!), Bottega Louie for their macarons, Gol Tong Chicken for Korean fried chicken, and The Front Yard (go for brunch and get the homemade wildberry pop tarts and the hot chicken biscuit). I could go on and on, but I’d write a novel.
  • Avoid driving during rush hour. If you rent a car, avoid driving during rush hour if at all possible. Rush hour in LA typically runs from 7-9 am and 4-6 pm, so plan your trips accordingly. Note that traffic can be bad even outside these hours, so give yourself plenty of time to get where you’re going.
  • Celebrity home tours aren’t worth it. LA is full of celebrities, with many celebrity home tours to choose from. However, I don’t think they’re worth it. You’ll be stuck around dozens of other tour vans, and it’s highly likely that famous star once lived in that home many years ago. Save your money and do something else.
  • You can’t hike up right to the Hollywood Sign. One of the most iconic sights in LA is the Hollywood Sign, and some tourists have the misconception that they can get right up on it. However, that’s not possible. Several hikes will take you close to the sign, with beautiful views of Los Angeles along the way. The sign is monitored and patrolled by security, so don’t try and do anything you shouldn’t be doing.
Blue lifeguard tower on the beach with the Santa Monica Pier in the background during sunset.

Santa Monica Pier at sunset

What to Do if You Have More Than 2 Days in LA

If you have an extra day or two to add to your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary, there are plenty of other great places to explore. These are some more of my favorite spots in LA that you’ll love too!

La Brea Tar Pits: La Brea Tar Pits are a hidden gem in the middle of Los Angeles. The pits were formed when natural underground oil reserves seeped to the surface and began pooling in depressions in the ground. Over time, plant matter and other debris became trapped in the tar, and animals that stepped in or fell into the tar were also preserved. The tar pits have yielded an abundant trove of Ice Age fossils, including mammoths and saber-toothed cats.

Getty Museum: The Getty Museum is an oasis of art and culture in a stunningly beautiful location. The museum houses a collection of artwork from the Middle Ages to the present, and its architecture provides majestic views of Los Angeles and the surrounding hillside. It’s also home to several notable sculptures, including Michelangelo’s La Pieta.

Walt Disney Concert Hall: The Walt Disney Concert Hall is one of Los Angeles’ most beautiful architectural landmarks. Designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry, the concert hall has an impressive interior design that features a 2,265-seat auditorium with amazing acoustics. The exterior also features curvaceous stainless steel walls and towering spires.

Universal Studios Hollywood: Universal Studios Hollywood is an iconic theme park full of thrilling rides and entertaining shows. You can experience the magic of Hollywood, explore thrilling attractions, and participate in interactive experiences. Plus, there are plenty of shops and restaurants to choose from!

The entrance to Universal Studios Hollywood in Los Angeles.

If you’re looking for more things to add to your 2 day Los Angeles itinerary, visit Universal Studios Hollywood.

Best Day Trips From Los Angeles

If you have more than 2 days in LA and want to escape the city and go on a day trip, you’ll be delighted to know there are many great options. Here are some of the best day trips from Los Angeles.

Santa Barbara: Located about 2 hours north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is a picturesque coastal city with a culture all its own. Spend the day at the beach, visit Stearns Wharf for amazing views and seafood restaurants, or explore the Santa Barbara Mission.

Santa Catalina Island: Take a short ferry ride from Long Beach, and you’ll find yourself on the beautiful, serene island of Catalina. It’s one of the most beautiful islands in the USA, and you can explore the quaint town of Avalon or hike up to some incredible vantage points where you can view dolphins, whales, and sea lions.

San Diego: San Diego is a 2-hour drive south of Los Angeles, packed with attractions. From Seaport Village to La Jolla Cove, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Spend a day at the beach or explore Balboa Park — the possibilities are endless!

Palm Springs: Palm Springs is a 2-hour drive east of Los Angeles, and it’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle. Spend a day lounging by one of the city’s many pools, explore the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for incredible views, or check out some of the area’s unique art galleries.

Santa Catalina Island with a walking promenade along the shore and a few boats in the water.

Santa Catalina Island

Los Angeles in 2 Days Recap

What a jam-packed weekend in Los Angeles! Let’s review all the amazing places we covered in this 2 day Los Angeles itinerary. 

  • Griffith Observatory
  • Hollywood Sign
  • Hollywood Walk of Fame
  • The Grove
  • The Orginal Farmer’s Market
  • Los Angeles County Museum of Art (Urban Light)
  • Beverly Hills/Rodeo Hill
  • Sunset Strip
  • Malibu
  • Santa Monica/Santa Monica Pier
  • Venice Beach
  • Marina del Rey
  • Grand Central Market
  • Bradbury Building
  • Olvera Street
  • Union Station

2 Day Los Angeles Itinerary Final Thoughts

As you can see, LA has so much to offer regarding attractions and experiences.

Spending a weekend in LA is the perfect way to explore the city and get a small dose of its culture and attractions.

This 2 day Los Angeles itinerary will help you make the most of your time in LA, while still allowing you to have a memorable and enjoyable experience.

So pack your bags, go out and see some of the world’s most iconic places, and soak up the Los Angeles sun!

Have you spent a weekend in LA? Let me know in the comments below!

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