Santa Monica Pier is a landmark and popular attraction located in Santa Monica. It’s known for its amusement park, beautiful beach, and various attractions for tourists and locals to enjoy. Head to Venice Beach (south of the pier) and enjoy street performers, vendors, and more attractions. End the day with a beautiful view of the sunset.
Start your day by exploring the glamorous neighborhood of Beverly Hills. Stroll down the famous Rodeo Drive and admire the designer shops and chic boutiques. Don't miss a tour of the Greystone Mansion, a historic mansion set on 16 acres of beautiful gardens and open for public tours.
Visit the most famous attractions in Hollywood including Walk of Fame, Hollywood and Highland shopping center, and the iconic Grauman's Chinese Theatre. Head to the Sunset Strip to see some of the best entertainment venues in the city, including The Viper Room, The Whiskey a Go Go, and The Roxy Theatre.
Spend a day at Universal Studios Hollywood, the famous film and TV studios turned into one of the most popular theme parks in the world. Experience the magic of Hollywood and see where your favorite movies and TV shows were filmed.
The Getty Center is a world-renowned art museum and research institute. Explore the beautiful gardens and view the impressive art collection featuring works from Rembrandt, Van Gogh, and more. Don't forget to take in the stunning views of Los Angeles from atop the hill.
End your trip by exploring Griffith Park and Observatory, the largest urban park in the United States. Take a hike or a bike ride through the park and take in the views of the city. Head to the Griffith Observatory to explore the universe and view the stars through telescopes.
The best way to travel around Los Angeles is by car. Rent a car upon arrival at the airport or take a taxi/ridesharing service such as Uber or Lyft. Parking can be an issue in some areas, so it's best to use public parking lots or paid parking garages. Expect some heavy traffic congestion during peak hours, so plan travel times accordingly.
Estimated Travel Cost: $150 for car rental and $60 for parking
If you have extra time, don't miss out on other popular attractions such as the Hollywood Bowl, the Griffith Park Zoo, or the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Alternatively, if you have less time, consider skipping The Getty Center or The Griffith Observatory, as they require a bit of travel time to get to.
The main airport in Los Angeles is Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located 16 miles southwest of downtown Los Angeles. The airport code is LAX. Other airports in the area include Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) and Long Beach Airport (LGB), but LAX is the largest and most commonly used airport.
Tour Operator Urban nature & discovery walking tours
Garden Safaris offers immersive, guided walking tours that reveal the hidden natural beauty of Santa Monica. We specialize in urban “safaris” that blend gardens, architecture, secret stairways, canyon paths, and ocean views into unforgettable local adventures. Led by knowledgeable guides, our tours go beyond typical sightseeing, inviting travelers to explore peaceful, lesser-known landscapes and discover the stories, design, and nature woven into the city. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing garden stroll or an active scenic hike, Garden Safaris turns the city into a living outdoor escape.