7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Alhambra, California

• Day 1: The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens - Explore this vast estate and enjoy the stunning gardens filled with various plant species from around the world. Don't forget to visit the art museum to view impressive collections of paintings and sculptures.
• Day 2: The Getty Villa - A must-visit site for art lovers. Take a tour of the stunning villa and enjoy the ancient Greek and Roman art collections. Afterwards, enjoy some relaxation on the beautiful beaches of Malibu.
• Day 3: The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) - Explore one of the most significant art museums in the western US. You'll find works of art that span the ages, including an impressive collection of modern and contemporary works.
• Day 4: Griffith Observatory - A beautiful landmark in Los Angeles famous for its spectacular views of the city and the stars. Catch different shows at the planetarium and watch space exhibitions.
• Day 5: Old Pasadena - This time, visit a charming historic district filled with cultural landmarks and eclectic shops. Don’t forget to check out the street performers and local food vendors.
• Day 6: Universal Studios Hollywood - A must-visit site for movie buffs. Universal Studios is a world-renowned theme park with thrilling rides, live shows, and movie sets.
• Day 7: Santa Monica Pier - Take a short ride from Alhambra and visit this famous pier for games and rides. Enjoy views of the beach and the beautiful ocean.

Time and Cost Estimates:

• The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens (4-5 hours, $25)
• The Getty Villa (3-4 hours, Free)
• The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) (4-5 hours, $15)
• Griffith Observatory (2-3 hours, Free)
• Old Pasadena (3-4 hours, Free)
• Universal Studios Hollywood (5-6 hours, $90)
• Santa Monica Pier (3-4 hours, Free)
Total Estimated Costs: $145

Transportation

Travelers can use the Los Angeles Metro bus system for a budget-friendly way to explore the city with one-day pass costing around $7. The city is also bike-friendly with rental bikes ranging from $7 to $12 per hour. However, renting a car is the most efficient and convenient option for a week-long trip. Car rental rates vary, but you can book it for approximately $25 per day depending on the type of car and the rental company.

Useful Tips

If you have a little more time, consider visiting the Rose Bowl flea market or exploring the downtown Los Angeles historic district. If you have less time, consider skipping either Universal Studios or Santa Monica Pier to decrease the cost of the trip. Also, consider visiting all outdoor sites on one day to gain one-free day for other activities.

Airports

The nearest airport to Alhambra is the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), located 30 minutes south of Alhambra. John Wayne Airport (SNA) is another option, which is a one-hour drive from the city.