A 4-Day Volunteering Adventure in Up

Saturday July 22, 2023

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica Pier. In the morning, take a leisurely stroll along the iconic pier, enjoying the ocean breeze and stunning views. In the afternoon, visit Pacific Park, the amusement park located on the pier, and ride the Ferris wheel for panoramic vistas. As the evening sets in, explore the bustling Third Street Promenade, known for its shopping, dining, and street performers.

• Santa Monica Pier: $10 (estimated cost), 2 hours (estimated time spent)
• Pacific Park: $25 (estimated cost), 3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Third Street Promenade: Free, 2 hours (estimated time spent)

Sunday July 23, 2023

Embark on a volunteering experience at the Los Angeles Regional Food Bank. Spend the morning sorting and packing donated food items that will be distributed to those in need. Enjoy a tasty lunch at a nearby local restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the Getty Center, a world-renowned art museum with stunning architecture and breathtaking views of the city. Wrap up the day with a visit to the Griffith Observatory to witness the spectacular sunset over the city.

• Los Angeles Regional Food Bank: Volunteering, 4 hours (estimated time spent)
• Getty Center: $20 (estimated cost), 3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Griffith Observatory: Free, 2 hours (estimated time spent)

Monday July 24, 2023

Head to Heal the Bay, an environmental nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting the coastal waters of Southern California. Engage in a beach cleanup activity in the morning and contribute to the conservation efforts. Enjoy a picnic lunch at a nearby beachside spot. In the afternoon, visit the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County to explore fascinating exhibits on natural history and biodiversity. Wrap up the day with a relaxing stroll along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, known for its vibrant atmosphere and street performers.

• Heal the Bay (Beach Cleanup): Volunteering, 4 hours (estimated time spent)
• Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County: $15 (estimated cost), 3 hours (estimated time spent)
• Venice Beach Boardwalk: Free, 2 hours (estimated time spent)

Tuesday July 25, 2023

Volunteer at Habitat for Humanity in the morning and contribute to building homes for those in need. Have a delicious lunch at a local eatery. In the afternoon, explore the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame, where you can find the stars honoring your favorite celebrities. Visit the TCL Chinese Theatre and capture a picture with the handprints of famous actors. End the day with a hike to the Hollywood Sign for breathtaking views of the city.

• Habitat for Humanity: Volunteering, 4 hours (estimated time spent)
• Hollywood Walk of Fame: Free, 2 hours (estimated time spent)
• TCL Chinese Theatre: Free, 1 hour (estimated time spent)
• Hollywood Sign Hike: Free, 3 hours (estimated time spent)

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, consider visiting the TreePeople Park. This urban oasis offers beautiful hiking trails and educational programs focused on environmental sustainability. Another local favorite is the Watts Towers, a stunning collection of intricate structures created by Italian immigrant Simon Rodia. These towers are a testament to human creativity and resilience. Additionally, the Getty Villa in Pacific Palisades is a hidden gem displaying ancient art and artifacts in a serene setting reminiscent of ancient Roman villas.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.