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5-Day Itinerary for Place to Hangout, Adventure, Scenery and Enjoy with Friends in July 2023

  1. Day 1: Venice Beach
    15 minutes (3.5 miles) from LAX Airport

    Start your day exploring the iconic Venice Beach boardwalk with a stroll along the beach. Take a bike or skateboard rental and explore the area. Stop by for lunch at The Cow's End Cafe, known for its delicious sandwiches and coffee. In the afternoon, head to the Venice Canals Walkway where you can walk along the beautiful canals and admire the colorful homes and gardens. In the evening, catch the sunset at the Venice Beach Pier.

  2. Day 2: Griffith Observatory
    30 minutes (13 miles) from Venice Beach

    Start your morning with a hike in Griffith Park. Then, head to the Griffith Observatory to explore the exhibits and enjoy the panoramic views of Los Angeles. Have lunch at the Cafe at the End of the Universe. In the afternoon, explore the Hollywood Walk of Fame and see the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre. In the evening, catch a movie at the historic Vista Theatre.

  3. Day 3: Santa Monica Pier
    25 minutes (9 miles) from Griffith Observatory

    Start your day at the Santa Monica Pier where you can ride the Ferris wheel and roller coaster at Pacific Park. Have brunch at The Albright, a seafood restaurant with ocean views. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or exploring the Third Street Promenade, a pedestrian-only street filled with shops and restaurants. In the evening, enjoy dinner at The Lobster, a seafood restaurant with stunning sunset views.

  4. Day 4: Joshua Tree National Park
    2.5 hours (133 miles) from Santa Monica Pier

    Start your day early and head to Joshua Tree National Park to hike in the beautiful desert landscape. Make sure to pack plenty of water and sunscreen. Have a picnic lunch in the park. In the afternoon, visit the Noah Purifoy Outdoor Museum, an art installation made from found objects. In the evening, stargaze at the Sky's The Limit Observatory and Nature Center.

  5. Day 5: Universal Studios Hollywood
    2 hours (85 miles) from Joshua Tree National Park

    Start your day at Universal Studios Hollywood where you can experience thrilling rides and visit the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Have lunch at the Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade. In the afternoon, visit the Getty Center, a museum with stunning architecture and gardens. In the evening, have dinner at the famous In-N-Out Burger before heading to see a show at the Troubadour.

Recommendations

If you have time, consider visiting the Getty Villa, a museum with ancient art and artifacts. Take a side trip to Malibu and enjoy the beaches, hiking trails, and wine tastings. To maximize your fun, rent a convertible car and drive up the Pacific Coast Highway. Don't forget to stop and take in the views at scenic overlooks.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • The Cow's End Cafe (1 hour, $10-15)
  • Griffith Observatory (2-3 hours, free)
  • Cafe at the End of the Universe (1 hour, $10-15)
  • The Albright (1 hour, $20-30)
  • The Lobster (1-2 hours, $30-50)
  • Universal Studios Hollywood (5-6 hours, $100-150)
  • Getty Center (2-3 hours, free)
  • In-N-Out Burger (1 hour, $5-10)
  • Troubadour (2-3 hours, $20-50)
  • Estimated Total Cost: $400-600
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