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Itineraries for Your Trip to Los Angeles

Los Angeles locals share their perfect days.
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2 Days in Los Angeles for First Timers

Curated by Lydia Schrandtwriter, editor, and award-winning photographer.

With two days to spend in Los Angeles, you have time to see the biggest attractions of Hollywood and Beverly Hills, hit the beach for some vitamin D, and experience the city’s cultural landscape and theme parks. Here’s how to make the most of a 2-day stay in the City of Angels.


Day 1: Morning

Start your trip off with a tour of Hollywood’s top attractions. Measure your hands against those of celebrities on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, snap some photos of Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and see which celebrities you might spot on an open-air bus tour through star-studded Beverly Hills or a Warner Bros. Studio Tour.

Day 1: Afternoon

Now that you’ve warmed up with some sightseeing, it’s time to cool off at the beach. Each stretch of sand in LA County has its own personality, from family-friendly Santa Monica Pier to bohemian Venice Beach.

Day 1: Night

Many LA landmarks look best at night. On an after-dark tour, gaze at the skyline from Griffith Park Observatory, see the illuminated Hollywood sign, and explore West Hollywood, home to nightclubs and live music venues. Depending on the season, catch a show at the Walt Disney Concert Hall or Hollywood Bowl.

Day 2: Morning

Get an early start for a visit to one of California’s famed amusement parks. Immerse yourself in all things movies and TV at Universal Studios Hollywood, home of the legendary Studio Tour, or head to Anaheim to explore the Happiest Place on Earth, Disneyland® Resort and Disney California Adventure® Park.

Day 2: Afternoon

You may decide to spend an entire day at the theme park, but if you’re ready for a change of pace, make your way to the Getty Center perched in the Santa Monica Mountains. The postmodernist building houses an enormous collection of art, complemented by spectacular views of Los Angeles and the Pacific Coast.

Day 2: Night

Make your final night in Los Angeles one to remember by booking a dinner cruise with live entertainment and a multi-course meal, or do it like the locals by having cocktails in one of several legendary Hollywood or Beverly Hills hotels.

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