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A Week in GoA: December 23-29, 2023

  1. Saturday, December 23: Explore Downtown Santa Monica
    10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Downtown Santa Monica

    Start your trip by exploring the vibrant Downtown Santa Monica. In the morning, take a leisurely stroll along the famous Third Street Promenade, lined with shops, restaurants, and street performers. In the afternoon, head to the Santa Monica Pier for a thrilling ride on the Ferris wheel. As the sun sets, enjoy a romantic beachfront dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.

    • Third Street Promenade: Free, 2-3 hours
    • Santa Monica Pier: $8 (Ferris wheel ride), 2 hours
    • Beachfront dinner: $30-50 per person, 1-2 hours
  2. Sunday, December 24: Visit Getty Center
    20 minutes (7.5 miles) from Downtown Santa Monica

    Spend your morning exploring the world-renowned Getty Center. Marvel at the impressive art collection, stroll through the beautiful gardens, and enjoy panoramic views of Los Angeles. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Brentwood Country Mart for some shopping and a delicious lunch.

    • Getty Center: Free (parking fee), 3-4 hours
    • Brentwood Country Mart: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
  3. Monday, December 25: Christmas at Universal Studios Hollywood
    40 minutes (15.5 miles) from Downtown Santa Monica

    Spend your Christmas Day at Universal Studios Hollywood. Experience thrilling rides, explore the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and catch entertaining shows. Don't miss the festive decorations and special holiday performances. Have a magical day filled with joy and excitement!

    • Universal Studios Hollywood: $109 (1-day ticket), 6-8 hours
  4. Tuesday, December 26: Discover Griffith Observatory and Hollywood
    30 minutes (14.5 miles) from Downtown Santa Monica

    Start your day at the Griffith Observatory, where you can learn about the universe and enjoy breathtaking views of the city. In the afternoon, head to Hollywood and take a walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Visit the TCL Chinese Theatre and see the iconic Hollywood sign from the Hollywood & Highland Center.

    • Griffith Observatory: Free, 2-3 hours
    • Hollywood Walk of Fame: Free, 1-2 hours
  5. Wednesday, December 27: Explore Downtown Los Angeles
    30 minutes (15 miles) from Downtown Santa Monica

    Spend the day exploring the vibrant Downtown Los Angeles. Start with a visit to The Broad, a contemporary art museum. Afterward, explore the historic Olvera Street, known as the birthplace of Los Angeles. Don't miss the impressive architecture of the Walt Disney Concert Hall. End your day with a delicious dinner in the trendy Arts District.

    • The Broad: Free, 2-3 hours
    • Olvera Street: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
    • Walt Disney Concert Hall: Free (guided tour available), 1-2 hours
    • Arts District dinner: $20-40 per person, 1-2 hours
  6. Thursday, December 28: Day Trip to Santa Barbara
    1 hour 30 minutes (95 miles) from Downtown Santa Monica

    Take a day trip to the beautiful coastal city of Santa Barbara. Explore the picturesque State Street, visit the Santa Barbara Mission, and relax on the stunning beaches. Don't forget to indulge in some local wine tasting at the Santa Ynez Valley wineries. Enjoy the charming Mediterranean-style architecture and coastal vibes.

    • Santa Barbara Mission: Free, 2-3 hours
    • State Street: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
    • Santa Ynez Valley wineries: Cost varies, 2-4 hours
  7. Friday, December 29: Relax and Departure
    10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Downtown Santa Monica

    On your last day, take a leisurely walk along the Santa Monica Beach to soak up the sun and enjoy the ocean breeze. Indulge in a spa treatment or shop for souvenirs at the Third Street Promenade. Bid farewell to the beautiful city of Santa Monica and depart for your next adventure.

    • Santa Monica Beach: Free, relaxation
    • Spa treatment: Cost varies, 1-2 hours
    • Shopping at Third Street Promenade: Cost varies, 2-3 hours

Recommendations

If you have extra time, consider visiting the stunning Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades or exploring the trendy Abbot Kinney Boulevard in Venice Beach. For day trips, you can venture to Malibu for scenic coastal views or head to Disneyland in Anaheim for a magical experience. To make the most of your money, check for discounted attraction tickets and consider purchasing a Go Card for additional savings. Have a memorable trip!

Click here to check hotel and flight prices for your trip to GoA.

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