Los Angeles, also known as the City of Angels, will not leave you hanging. From its star-studded streets to its stunning beaches and cultural landmarks, LA promises excitement and adventure at every turn.
If you’re anything like me, it doesn’t matter if it’s the glitz and glamour of Hollywood or the laid-back vibes of the coastal communities; there’s something for everyone in this dynamic city.
Table of Contents
Chinese Theater/Walk of Fame
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is one of Los Angeles’ most iconic attractions. It has over 2,500 stars embedded along 15 blocks on Hollywood Boulevard. Each star represents a celebrity from the entertainment industry. What’s fun is when you go with a group, and you all know different people. My girls introduced me to a few, and I got starry-eyed over Melissa Gilbert’s star.
Pro Tip: While strolling down the Walk of Fame, be prepared to encounter look-alikes of celebrities. These performers are happy to take pictures with you, but they expect a tip. Two Johnny Depp look-alikes stopped us during our visit!
Just a short walk away is the historic Chinese Theater. Unlike the stars on the boulevard, the Chinese Theater is renowned for its forecourt, which features the handprints and footprints of celebrities set in cement.
While the Walk of Fame and the Chinese Theater are close, they offer distinctly different experiences.
Beverly Hills/Rodeo Drive
Beverly Hills is synonymous with luxury and style, offering visitors a glimpse into the glamorous lifestyle of Los Angeles.
Before you start your day, though, stop by Trejo’s Tacos. This taco joint is named after its owner, Danny Trejo, famously known as the star of “Machete.” It’s an excellent spot for breakfast or dinner. Being the fan of pineapples that we are, my oldest and I ordered the Carnitas burrito to split. It had slow-roasted carnitas, fresh pineapple, fermented sauce, farmers market beans, Spanish rice, three cheese blends, and pico de gallo wrapped in a flour tortilla. I was excited to see that they had lattes on the menu as well.
For those with a sweet tooth, John Kelly Chocolates is a must-visit. It’s my favorite chocolate at home, so I was excited to visit their store in Beverly Hills. The building does a great job of showing off the luxuriousness of the confection.
As you explore Rodeo Drive, don’t miss the Walk of Style, where plaques honor influential figures in the fashion industry. Each plaque includes a quote from the honoree, offering inspiration and insight into the minds of those who have shaped the world of fashion.
Last but not least, if you’re looking for greenery amidst all the luxury, head to Beverly Gardens Park. This 1.9-mile park features beautiful gardens, walking paths, and the iconic Beverly Hills sign, making it a great spot to relax and take memorable photos.
Mulholland Scenic Corridor
The Mulholland Scenic Corridor allows visitors to explore the city’s winding roads and take in some of its most breathtaking views. This iconic drive is known for its exclusive and expensive homes, with many properties boasting stunning architecture and sweeping vistas, giving visitors a peek into a luxurious lifestyle.
Driving along the corridor provides unparalleled views of the Los Angeles Basin, the San Fernando Valley, and Downtown Los Angeles. You’ll also have a clear sightline to the Hollywood Sign.
For a truly spectacular viewpoint, stop at the Jerome C. Daniel Overlook. This overlook offers a beautiful view of the Hollywood Bowl Amphitheater below and a panoramic view of downtown Los Angeles. On a clear day, you can even see the ocean!
Pro Tip: While the views are incredible, it’s important to note that Mulholland Drive is very narrow and lacks barriers in some places. Drive carefully, especially around the sharp turns, and always be mindful of oncoming traffic. The road’s twists and turns are part of its charm but can be challenging for inexperienced drivers.
Griffith Observatory
Griffith J. Griffith gave $100,000 to the city of Los Angeles in 1898 to ensure that people of all backgrounds could explore the universe’s wonders. He requested that the observatory offer free astronomical telescope viewing, and the city has done just that.
You can enjoy all the exhibits, displays, and the stunning views of Los Angeles. It’s also a great place to explore the cosmos and look closely at celestial bodies through the public telescopes available.
Griffith Park offers numerous hiking trails in addition to the observatory itself. It’s a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to combine some exercise with their visit. The park’s trails provide some of the best vantage points for panoramic city views, including the iconic Hollywood Sign.
For families with younger children, there is the Travel Town Museum. This charming museum focuses on the history of transportation in Los Angeles, emphasizing trains, making it an educational and fun experience for the little ones.
Pro Tip: Sunset is one of the best times to visit the Griffith Observatory. Not only will you witness a beautiful sunset over Los Angeles, but as the sky darkens, the city lights begin to sparkle, creating a magical atmosphere.
Santa Monica Pier
The Santa Monica Pier is an iconic destination that perfectly captures Southern California’s vibrant, laid-back spirit. Rightfully so, as it is the end of Route 66. There is nothing quite like standing at the end of the “Mother Road” and taking in the expansive views of the Pacific Ocean.
One of the main attractions at the pier is Pacific Park, a classic seaside amusement park complete with a Ferris wheel, roller coasters, and various other rides and games. If you are not into riding the thrill rides, just stroll along the pier- it’s beautiful in its own right.
Santa Monica Beach is also a popular spot for those looking to try surfing. Surf lessons are readily available here, making it ideal for beginners who want to catch their first wave. This was my 40th birthday present to myself, and with the experienced instructors and gentle waves, it couldn’t have been easier.
If you are hungry after exploring the pier, walk up the beach (about two blocks) to Lemonade. This casual eatery is known for its fresh, flavorful food and bright, cheerful atmosphere. With a wide variety of dishes, it was a great place to refuel and relax before we went on to our next adventure around town.
Disneyland
No trip to Los Angeles would be complete without a visit to the “Happiest Place on Earth.” Disneyland Resort consists of two theme parks: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. Each park offers many unique experiences.
Disneyland Park is a classic park filled with beloved rides and attractions. Disney California Adventure provides a more modern take with attractions inspired by California’s history and popular Disney films. They recently renovated their pier area to resemble Big Hero Six’s SanFranTokyo, which delighted my girls.
To make the most of your visit, getting a Park Hopper pass is highly recommended. This pass allows you to move freely between both parks in a single day. The first time we went to Disneyland, we decided only to go to one park and, after rope dropping, ended up finishing by five o’clock. Even though we decided to return to our hotel and rest, we were disappointed.
One of our favorite rides is Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout at Disney California Adventure. If you’ve ever ridden Tower of Terror, it’s the same ride but a different plot line. Ugh, I absolutely love it.
Something else the girls and I like is that there are more meet-and-greet opportunities at Disneyland than at Disney World.
Abbot Kinney
Abbot Kinney Boulevard epitomizes the Southern California beachfront vibe, blending laid-back charm with an eclectic mix of shops, eateries, and vibrant street art.
Named after the visionary developer Abbot Kinney, who founded Venice as a beach resort town in the early 1900s, this boulevard has transformed into a trendy destination that embodies the spirit of Venice, Los Angeles.
When it comes to dining, Abbot Kinney does not disappoint. From the fresh, plant-based dishes at The Butcher’s Daughter to the numerous third-wave coffee shops that line the street, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. While there, the girls and I went to three well-known coffee shops that we don’t have at home in Dallas. If you want to know more about them in-depth, here’s a post over at Kale and Campfires.
A visit to the Erewhon Grocery Store is a must for those interested in health and wellness. This upscale market offers organic produce, unique health foods, and delicious prepared meals, making it a favorite among locals and visitors. And if you ever get the time, I highly recommend looking into its unique history!
As you stroll down the boulevard, you’ll also notice the impressive street art adoring many buildings. These murals add color and creativity to the area, making it a perfect spot for those looking to capture vibrant photos.
Venice Canals
Just a short walk from Abbot Kinney, you’ll find the Venice Canals, a hidden gem that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Los Angeles.
The canals were originally built in 1905 by Abbot Kinney himself and were inspired by the famous canals of Venice, Italy. Today, the canals provide a picturesque setting, charming footbridges, serene waters, and beautiful homes lining the banks.
While the Venice Canals are less touristy than other attractions, they offer a unique opportunity to explore a quieter side of Los Angeles. It’s a great place to wander, admire the unique architecture, and snap Instagram-worthy photos.
Conclusion
Los Angeles is a city that always captivates its visitors with diverse offerings and unique charm. It’s almost like every corner of LA has a story to tell.
I hope that as you explore this vibrant city, you also take the time to immerse yourself in its culture, savor its flavors, and capture the moments.
There is 1 comment
I am happy I came across your blog. LA, California is on my bucket list. I just want to visit to see what the hype is about. I will use your blog as a guide when I am planning my trip. Thanks for sharing.