Ultimate 18-Day Cultural and Culinary Journey: Los Angeles to New York City

Day 1: Arrival & LA Landmarks

Los Angeles, USA on July 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Start your day with oversized, creative pancakes at this popular LA spot, open from 8am to 3pm.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Take a stroll along the famous Hollywood Boulevard to spot your favourite stars' names embedded in the pavement.
Free, 1h30m

11:15am

Visit TCL Chinese Theatre

Explore this historic cinema with celebrity handprints and footprints outside, open from 10am to 10pm.
USD20, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Pink's Hot Dogs

Enjoy classic LA fast food with iconic hot dogs at this famous eatery, open from 11am to 11pm.
USD12, 1h

3:00pm

Griffith Observatory and Park

Visit the observatory for stunning views of LA and learn about astronomy; open 12pm to 10pm.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Bestia

Dine on upscale Italian cuisine in a trendy LA location; open 5pm to 11pm.
USD65, 2h
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Day 2: Beach Day & Art

Los Angeles, USA on July 2, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Urth Caffé

Organic coffees and healthy breakfast options with a stylish LA vibe; open 7am to 10pm.
USD18, 1h

10:00am

Santa Monica Beach & Pier

Relax on the famous beach and explore the vibrant pier with rides and shops; beach open all day, pier 10am to midnight.
Free, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at The Lobster

Enjoy fresh seafood with ocean views at this renowned Santa Monica restaurant, open 11:30am to 10pm.
USD45, 1.5h

4:00pm

Visit The Getty Center

Explore an impressive art collection and beautiful gardens; open 10am to 5:30pm (closed Mondays).
Free (parking USD20), 3h

8:00pm

Dinner at Gjelina

Popular for trendy Californian dishes with a focus on local ingredients; open 5pm to 11pm.
USD60, 2h
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Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Los Angeles, USA on July 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at République

French-inspired bakery with excellent pastries and coffee; open 8am to 5pm.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

Visit the largest art museum in the western US, open 11am to 5pm (Wednesdays - closed).
USD25, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at LACMA Cafe

Enjoy a convenient café lunch featuring Californian-inspired dishes within the museum grounds.
USD25, 1h

3:00pm

The Broad Museum

Explore contemporary art in downtown LA; open 11am to 5pm (Thursdays closed). Entry is free but reserve tickets in advance.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Bottega Louie

Vibrant spot with Italian dishes and a spectacular patisserie; open 7am to 11pm.
USD50, 2h
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Day 4: Day Trip to Malibu

Malibu, USA on July 4, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Malibu Farm Pier Cafe

Farm-to-table breakfast offering scenic ocean views; open 8am to 4pm.
USD22, 1h

9:00am

Explore Malibu Beaches

Visit Zuma Beach and El Matador State Beach for sun, sand and stunning coastal views.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Nobu Malibu

Upscale Japanese dining with oceanfront setting; open 11:30am to 10pm.
USD80, 1.5h

3:30pm

Visit Malibu Wines

Enjoy a wine tasting experience in a beautiful vineyard setting; open 12pm to 5pm.
USD30, 2h

6:30pm

Return to Los Angeles for Dinner at Dan Tana's

Classic Italian-American eatery beloved by locals, open 5pm to 10pm.
USD55, 2h
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Day 5: Historic LA & Shopping

Los Angeles, USA on July 5, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Sqirl

Known for innovative breakfast dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients; open 7am to 3pm.
USD18, 1h

10:00am

Visit El Pueblo de Los Angeles and Olvera Street

Discover LA’s oldest neighbourhood with Mexican markets and historic landmarks; open 10am to 5pm.
Free, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Philippe The Original

Try the original French dip sandwich at this famous downtown counter restaurant; open 10am to 8pm.
USD15, 1h

2:30pm

Shopping at The Grove

Enjoy a lively outdoor shopping experience featuring popular stores and a farmer's market.
Free (shopping costs vary), 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Catch LA

Trendy seafood restaurant in West Hollywood; open 5pm to 11pm.
USD70, 2h
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Day 6: Nature & Science

Los Angeles, USA on July 6, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Lemonade

Fresh Californian food with casual quick service; open 8am to 9pm.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County

Discover fascinating exhibits about nature and dinosaurs; open 9:30am to 5pm.
USD15, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Counter

Build your own gourmet burger with a variety of fresh toppings; open 11am to 10pm.
USD18, 1h

2:30pm

California Science Center

Explore science exhibits and see the Space Shuttle Endeavour; open 10am to 5pm.
Free, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at République (repeat visit recommended)

End the day with delicious French-inspired dishes in a historic LA building.
USD60, 2h
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Day 7: Relax & Explore Downtown

Los Angeles, USA on July 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Eggslut

Highly rated spot known for inventive egg sandwiches; open 7am to 3pm.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Walt Disney Concert Hall Tour

Explore architecture by Frank Gehry and see inside the famed concert hall; tours at 10am and 2pm, book in advance.
USD15, 1h

11:00am

The Last Bookstore

Browse this iconic and large independent bookstore with a creative atmosphere; open 10am to 10pm.
Free, 1h

1:00pm

Lunch at Grand Central Market

Sample diverse cuisines from numerous vendors in this lively food hall; open 8am to 10pm.
USD20, 1.5h

3:00pm

Explore Arts District

Visit galleries, street art, and unique shops in the vibrant neighbourhood.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Otium

Contemporary dining perfect for a final LA night; open 5pm to 10pm.
USD65, 2h
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Day 8: Departure Day

Los Angeles, USA on July 8, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Joan’s on Third

Casual spot offering artisanal breakfasts and bakery items; open 7am to 6pm.
USD18, 1h

10:00am

Pack up & Last-minute shopping

Grab any last-minute gifts or souvenirs before departure.
Varies, 2h

12:00pm

Airport transfer for flight to New York

Allow ample time for travel and airport security.
Varies, 3h
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Day 9: Arrival & NYC Icons

New York City, USA on July 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

Start with a quintessential NY bagel and shmear, open 6am to 6pm.
USD12, 1h

9:30am

Visit Central Park

Explore the famous urban park’s landmarks and green spaces; park open 6am to 1am.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Loeb Boathouse

Enjoy a picturesque lunch overlooking Central Park lake; open 11:30am to 4pm.
USD40, 1.5h

3:00pm

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Explore world-class modern and contemporary art; open 10:30am to 5:30pm (closed Tuesdays).
USD25, 3h

7:00pm

Dinner at Carbone

Enjoy top-tier Italian-American cuisine in a glamorous setting; open 5pm to 11pm (reservations recommended).
USD75, 2h
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Day 10: Statue & Skyline

New York City, USA on July 10, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Bubby’s

American comfort food breakfast with a focus on local ingredients; open 8am to 3pm.
USD22, 1h

9:00am

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour

Statue ferry departs 9am; explore iconic landmark and immigration museum.
USD25, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Fraunces Tavern

Historic tavern with classic American fare, open 11:30am to 10pm.
USD30, 1.5h

4:00pm

Visit One World Observatory

Enjoy panoramic views of NYC from atop the tallest building; open 9am to 9pm.
USD40, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at The River Café

Upscale dining with incredible views of Manhattan skyline; open 5:30pm to 10pm.
USD90, 2h
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Day 11: Museum & Broadway

New York City, USA on July 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Clinton St. Baking Company

Famous for pancakes and hearty breakfast dishes; open 8am to 3pm.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

American Museum of Natural History

Explore extensive exhibits covering natural science and anthropology; open 10am to 5:30pm.
USD25, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Shake Shack (Upper West Side)

Casual and delicious burgers and shakes; open 11am to 10pm.
USD18, 1h

4:00pm

Relax at Central Park Great Lawn

Unwind on the grass or take a leisurely walk through the park.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner near Theater District at Becco

Known for its Italian pastas and pre-theatre meals; open 5pm to 11pm.
USD50, 1.5h

8:00pm

Broadway Show

See a famous Broadway production; shows typically start around 7:30pm or 8pm.
USD120+, 3h
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Day 12: Neighborhood Gems

New York City, USA on July 12, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Dominque Ansel Bakery

Famous for the Cronut and innovative pastries; open 8am to 6:30pm.
USD15, 1h

10:00am

Chelsea Market & High Line Walk

Enjoy food, shopping and a walk above the city on an elevated park.
Free (shopping costs vary), 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at Los Tacos No.1

Authentic Mexican tacos located in Chelsea Market; open 11am to 9pm.
USD15, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Whitney Museum of American Art

Focuses on 20th and 21st-century American art; open 10:30am to 6pm.
USD25, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at ABC Kitchen

Farm-to-table dining with an emphasis on organic ingredients; open 5:30pm to 10pm.
USD65, 2h
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Day 13: Brooklyn & Views

New York City, USA on July 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Bakeri

Charming Scandinavian bakery in Brooklyn with fresh pastries; open 7:30am to 6pm.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Walk Brooklyn Bridge & Explore DUMBO

Experience breathtaking views crossing the bridge and enjoy artsy shops and waterfront parks in DUMBO.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Cecconi’s Dumbo

Italian cuisine with waterfront views; open 11:30am to 10pm.
USD50, 1.5h

3:00pm

Brooklyn Museum

A diverse art collection with a focus on contemporary and ancient art; open 11am to 6pm.
USD16, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at St. Anselm

Known for grilled meats and relaxed atmosphere in Williamsburg; open 5pm to 11pm.
USD60, 2h
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Day 14: Financial District

New York City, USA on July 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Leo’s Bagels

Classic New York bagel experience in FiDi; open 7am to 3pm.
USD12, 1h

9:30am

9/11 Memorial and Museum

A somber and moving tribute to the victims of 9/11; museum open 9am to 8pm.
USD26, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Eataly Downtown

Italian marketplace with multiple eateries and fresh pasta; open 11:30am to 9pm.
USD35, 1.5h

3:00pm

Walk Wall Street and Battery Park

See the financial district landmarks and enjoy harbour views at Battery Park.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at The Dead Rabbit

Award-winning cocktail bar and spot for upscale pub fare; open 4pm to 2am.
USD50, 2h
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Day 15: Upper East Side & Museums

New York City, USA on July 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Sarabeth’s

Classic New York breakfast with a luxurious feel; open 8am to 11pm.
USD30, 1h

9:30am

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world’s largest and finest art museums; open 10am to 5:30pm.
USD30, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at The Dining Room at The Met

Elegant dining inside the museum with a view of Central Park.
USD45, 1.5h

4:00pm

Walk along Fifth Avenue

Explore luxury shops and iconic NY landmarks on this famous street.
Free (shopping costs vary), 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Daniel

Renowned Michelin-starred French cuisine in an elegant atmosphere; open 5:30pm to 10:30pm.
USD100, 2.5h
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Day 16: Harlem & Jazz

New York City, USA on July 16, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Amy Ruth’s

Famous for Southern soul food breakfasts in Harlem; open 8am to 3pm.
USD20, 1h

10:00am

Visit Apollo Theater and Harlem Walk

Historic music venue with guided tours; explore Harlem’s cultural sites.
USD20, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Sylvia’s

Iconic soul food restaurant in Harlem; open 11am to 10pm.
USD35, 1.5h

3:00pm

Walk in Marcus Garvey Park

Relax in this local park enjoying the views and atmosphere.
Free, 1h

7:30pm

Jazz Night at Minton’s Playhouse

Historic jazz club featuring live music; shows typically 8pm to 11pm.
USD50, 3h
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Day 17: Shopping & Last Museum

New York City, USA on July 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cafe Lalo

Charming European-style cafe known for pastries and breakfast; open 8am to 11pm.
USD18, 1h

9:30am

Shopping at SoHo

Explore designer boutiques, art galleries and trendy shops in SoHo.
Free (shopping costs vary), 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Jack’s Wife Freda

Popular spot serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes; open 8am to 11pm.
USD30, 1h

2:30pm

Visit The Frick Collection

Small but exquisite art museum located in a Gilded Age mansion; open 10am to 6pm.
USD25, 2h

7:00pm

Farewell Dinner at Le Bernardin

Indulge in exquisite French seafood at this Michelin three-star restaurant; open 5:30pm to 10pm.
USD120, 2h
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Day 18: Departure

New York City, USA on July 18, 2025

8:00am

Light Breakfast at Bluestone Lane

Australian-inspired coffee shop with healthy breakfast options; open 7am to 5pm.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Pack up & airport transfer

Prepare for your departure with plenty of time for airport formalities.
Varies, 2h
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