14-Day Itinerary: City Experiences in LA

  • Day 1: Santa Monica Pier
    10 minutes (1.3 miles) from Downtown Santa Monica

    The 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.

  • Day 2: Universal Studios Hollywood
    30 minutes (14 miles) from Santa Monica Pier

    Experience blockbuster movie sets and thrill rides at Universal Studios Hollywood. This attraction is a must-visit for movie lovers and adrenaline seekers alike.

  • Day 3: Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park
    20 minutes (7.4 miles) from Universal Studios Hollywood

    Get a stunning view of the city and learn about astrology and science at Griffith Observatory. Take a hike or have a picnic at Griffith Park, the largest urban park in the country.

  • Day 4: The Getty Center
    20 minutes (8.6 miles) from Griffith Observatory

    The Getty Center features a collection of Western art from the Middle Ages to the present. Visitors can also enjoy the architecture and gardens of the center while taking in breathtaking views of LA.

  • Day 5: The Original Farmers Market and The Grove
    25 minutes (8.6 miles) from The Getty Center

    The Original Farmers Market has been a staple of LA since 1934 with shops and stalls selling fresh produce, meat and handmade items. Next to it is the Grove, a sophisticated outdoor shopping complex which include dining, shopping, and entertainment options.

  • Day 6: The Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre
    20 minutes (6.4 miles) from The Original Farmers Market and The Grove

    Get your camera ready to capture pictures of the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame stars and shop for souvenirs. Get a ticket to TCL Chinese Theatre to admire its historic architecture and watch a movie.

  • Day 7: Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County
    20 minutes (6.2 miles) from Hollywood Walk of Fame

    Explore the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County with exhibits ranging from dinosaurs, gems and minerals to the native peoples of California.

  • Day 8: Sunset Boulevard and Rodeo Drive
    20 minutes (6.8 miles) from Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

    Drive down the scenic Sunset Boulevard and indulge in shopping at Rodeo Drive, known for its luxury brands and designer flagship shops.

  • Day 9: The Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad
    10 minutes (1.7 miles) from Sunset Boulevard and Rodeo Drive

    Appreciate architectural design and modern art at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, known for its excellent acoustics and unique curves. Right across the street is The Broad, housing collections of contemporary art.

  • Day 10: California Science Center
    15 minutes (5.5 miles) from The Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad

    The California Science Center offers a fun and interactive way to learn about scientific concepts and theories with exhibits like Space Shuttle Endeavour and the World of Life.

  • Day 11: Venice Beach and Boardwalk
    20 minutes (8.2 miles) from California Science Center

    Stroll along the iconic Venice Beach and Boardwalk filled with street performers, artists, and vendors. Rent a bike or skate for a beachside workout.

  • Day 12: Exposition Park
    15 minutes (5.5 miles) from Venice Beach and Boardwalk

    Visit Exposition Park, a cultural hub where the California African American Museum, and exhibitions on science and history including Nature Gardens & Lab and the Rose Garden can be found.

  • Day 13: Music Center and Grand Park
    15 minutes (3.3 miles) from Exposition Park

    The Music Center features four performance venues and the Walt Disney Concert Hall, but also has an urban oasis named Grand Park, featuring public art installations, green space, and outdoor recreational activities.

  • Day 14: Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and Olvera Street
    10 minutes (1.9 miles) from Music Center and Grand Park

    Get your contemporary art fix at the Museum of Contemporary Art where cutting-edge exhibits are always on display. Afterward, head over to Olvera Street, the birthplace of LA, and experience the cultural market filled with Afro-Mexican heritage, shopping and authentic dining options.

  • Time and Cost Estimates

    • Santa Monica Pier (2-3 hours, free)
    • Universal Studios Hollywood (8 hours, $150+ per person)
    • Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park (4-5 hours, free)
    • The Getty Center (4-5 hours, free)
    • The Original Farmers Market and The Grove (4 hours, cost varies)
    • The Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre (3 hours, free - $20 per person for Chinese Theatre tour)
    • Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County (3-5 hours, $7-15 per person)
    • Sunset Boulevard and Rodeo Drive (2-3 hours, free + shopping costs)
    • The Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad (3-5 hours, $20-25 per person for Broad admission)
    • California Science Center (3-5 hours, free, $ ongoing donations accepted)
    • Venice Beach and Boardwalk (2-3 hours, free)
    • Exposition Park (4 hours, free)
    • Music Center and Grand Park (2 hours, free)
    • Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) and Olvera Street (3-4 hours, $10-15 for MOCA admission)
    • Total Estimated Costs: $217-$255 per person, not including meals and transportation costs

    Transportation

    Transportation in LA can be expensive and time-consuming. The city has an extensive public transportation system, but it may not be the most convenient for tourists. Consider renting a car or using ride-hail services. Taking a bike or walking tours can be enjoyable options with experienced guides and fresh air. Expect to spend at least $100 a day or more for transportation costs.

    Useful Tips

    It is recommended to book tickets in advance for Universal Studios Hollywood and TCL Chinese Theatre. Plan your itinerary ahead of time and make reservations where possible to avoid long waiting times. If you have extra time, visit nearby cities like Santa Barbara or San Diego for a change of scenery.

    Airports

    Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the main airport in LA, located 16 miles from Downtown LA. John Wayne/Orange County Airport (SNA) and Burbank Bob Hope Airport (BUR) are alternatives located around 45 minutes from Downtown LA.

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