1 day in Los Angeles itinerary
Highlights
- Silver Lake neighborhood and reservoir
- Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) & Urban Light
- La Brea Tar Pits
- Griffith Observatory views of the Hollywood Sign
- Dinner and evening drinks in Los Feliz
Itinerary
Day 1
A relaxed day combining neighborhoods, museums, short hikes, and local dining.
Breakfast at Sqirl
Start with a popular local breakfast spot known for inventive toasts, jams, and seasonal dishes. Expect a short line on weekends.
Local tips:
- Arrive early (before 9am) to avoid long queues.
- Try the ricotta toast or a seasonal jam — portions are generous.
- Orders are counter-service; there can be limited seating.
Walk Silver Lake Reservoir
A flat, pleasant loop around the reservoir for people-watching, local architecture views, and a gentle stretch after breakfast.
Local tips:
- The loop is about a mile — comfortable shoes recommended.
- Great spot for photography of the neighborhood and morning light.
- If you want a coffee refill, several cafes line Silver Lake Blvd.
Drive to LACMA (transfer)
Transfer to the Mid-Wilshire / Miracle Mile museum corridor. Allow some buffer for traffic depending on time and day.
Local tips:
- Traffic can vary; rideshares or driving take 25–40 minutes from Silver Lake.
- LACMA parking is available but can fill up on weekends.
- If you prefer transit, plan for roughly 40–60 minutes by bus/metro + walk.
Visit LACMA & Urban Light
Explore LACMA's collections and the iconic 'Urban Light' installation outside — a great mix of modern/contemporary art and a photo stop.
Local tips:
- Buy tickets online or check current exhibit hours; the Urban Light installation is free to view.
- Allow time to stroll the galleries and step outside for photos.
- Museum cafe is handy if you decide to linger.
Lunch at Ray's and Stark Bar (LACMA)
Sit-down lunch with a menu suited for a museum break — seasonal California fare with quick service for daytime visitors.
Local tips:
- Reservations are helpful during peak times; ask for a table near the patio if weather is nice.
- If short on time, the Stark Bar offers a faster counter option.
- Check menu for vegetarian options — usually available.
Explore La Brea Tar Pits
Visit the tar pits and open-air excavation sites; short exhibits explain Ice Age fossils found right here in LA.
Local tips:
- The on-site museum is small but packed with fossils; allow ~45–60 minutes.
- Look for active excavation areas in the park and the tar pits sculptures.
- Good photo opportunities with the bubbling tar and museum displays.
Drive to Griffith Observatory (transfer)
Head up toward Griffith Park for afternoon views. Note that parking near the Observatory can be limited; consider drop-off.
Local tips:
- Allow extra time for uphill traffic and limited parking near the Observatory.
- Rideshare drop-off is often the easiest option if parking is scarce.
- If you prefer a scenic alternative, consider parking lower on Fern Dell Drive and walking up.
Griffith Observatory & short hike for views
Visit the Observatory exhibits, take in sweeping views of the city and the Hollywood Sign, and optionally do a short trail walk around the grounds.
Local tips:
- Exhibits inside are free, but check planetarium show schedules and ticketing in advance.
- Bring water and a light jacket — it can be breezy on the ridge.
- Sunset is a popular time; aim to arrive before golden hour for the best light.
Break at The Trails Cafe (light snack or coffee)
A cozy park cafe inside Griffith Park — ideal for a quick coffee or snack before heading to dinner.
Local tips:
- Outdoor seating only; good spot for a short rest and people-watching.
- Cash and card are usually accepted; check hours as they can vary seasonally.
- If closed, there are nearby cafes on Los Feliz Blvd.
Drive or short ride to Little Dom's in Los Feliz
Transfer down to Los Feliz for a classic neighborhood dinner. Short drive from the Observatory.
Local tips:
- Parking in Los Feliz can be metered; arrive a bit early to find street parking.
- A short ride or drive — expect 15–30 minutes depending on traffic.
- Little Dom's is popular for dinner; reservations recommended for a weekend night.
Dinner at Little Dom's
Classic neighborhood Italian-American restaurant with reliable comfort food and a convivial atmosphere.
Local tips:
- Reservations are recommended, especially Friday/Saturday nights.
- Family-style dishes are great for sharing; ask the server for favorites.
- Try to leave a little room for dessert — their lemon ricotta cake is a local favorite.
Stroll Los Feliz / Hillhurst Avenue
Walk the charming Los Feliz main streets — window shop, enjoy neighborhood shops, and unwind after dinner.
Local tips:
- Hillhurst Avenue and Vermont/Sunset area have great indie shops and bakeries.
- If you want coffee or a late dessert, many cafes stay open into the evening.
- The area is pedestrian-friendly and pleasant at dusk.
Evening drinks at The Dresden
Finish the night at a classic LA lounge with a vintage vibe and live music on some nights — a relaxed spot for cocktails or dessert.
Local tips:
- Check live music schedule if you're hoping for a show; it can get lively on weekends.
- If it's busy, ask for bar seating for a quicker spot.
- Tipping is customary for table service and drinks.
The Original Hollywood Sign Walking Tour in Los Angeles
Go on an adventure in Los Angeles’ Griffith Park up to the Hollywood Sign by following a guide who knows the area well. Your guide also provides snacks, bottled water, and sunscreen for the hike. Once you meet your guide at the designa...
$20
per adult
Los Angeles and Hollywood: Ultimate Small-Group Photo Tour
If you are a first-time visitor to Los Angeles, this small-group tour is an excellent way to see the city. Starting at the Dolby Theater, you'll visit the highlights of LA and Hollywood, as well as a few unexpected, lesser-known spots. Your g...
$69
per adult
LA Movie and TV Show Locations Tour
Movie buffs can discover a variety of filming locations with the help of an industry insider during this tour. Hear exclusive stories, including celebrity interviews and red-carpet moments. Meet Leo, who has interviewed stars like Ryan Reynol...
$40
per adult
Los Angeles Essentials Private Full-Day Sightseeing Tour
Have only a short amount of time in Los Angeles? Leave the logistics to someone else, and discover many of the city’s top landmarks all in one day, on this seamless, private tour. Following pickup from your hotel, travel in an air-conditioned...
$899
per adult
Classic Convertible Car Tour of Los Angeles
Hit the Los Angeles roads feeling like you’re in a Hollywood movie on this one-of-a-kind private tour of West Hollywood and Beverly Hills. Drive around Tinseltown in a 1970s classic convertible, the wind in your hair as you explore these glos...
$1000
per adult
Hollywood Sign Express Walk in Los Angeles
Join this group walking tour that takes you all the way to the Hollywood sign in a short amount of time. You’ll still get a great walk in, with a few photo spots with great views thrown in there too. Your guide will tell you loads of stories ...
$15
per adult
Beverly Hills Food, Film, and Fashion Tour
Explore secret bars and truly cinematic settings with the help of a guide who’ll have you wining and dining like a Beverly Hills local. Spend a delicious 3.5 hours eating your way around town and get special access to a fashion house on Rodeo...
$189
per adult
Santa Monica and Venice Electric Bike Tour with Pier, Beaches
Explore Santa Monica on a private tour by electric bike and see the highlights of the vibrant coastal city. Follow your guide along Santa Monica’s palm-lined streets. Stroll the boardwalk at the Santa Monica Pier, dip your toes in the Pacific...
$119
per adult
Venice Beach Scenic Photo Tour of Famous Iconic Spots
Capture the vibrant energy of Venice Beach and Marina del Rey with a professional photographer. Explore the Venice Beach Boardwalk, the Venice Canals, and the Marina del Rey Harbor, and learn how to take the best photos of these iconic locations. Sta...
$87
per adult
Venice Beach & Marina Del Rey: A Scenic tour & Photo Session
Capture the vibrant energy of Venice Beach and Marina del Rey with a professional photographer and Foodie. A photography journey, Exploring the Venice Beach Boardwalk and best foods around Venice beach and the Marina del Rey Harbor. Learn how to take...
$131
per adult
Long Beach: Private Night Yacht Cruise With City Lights
Live the high life with a luxury yacht cruise from Rainbow Harbor with the stunning and colorful Long Beach cityscape reflecting on the water all around you. View the sea life and city lights as your group cruises in style on board a 42-foot twin-eng...
$236
per adult
Marina Del Rey: Romantic Cruise, Dinner Charcuterie or Sushi
Set sail on one or two eco-friendly, fully electric noise free, pollution free Duffy boat and experience the beauty of California coasline in Los Angeles’ most stunning marina. We can accommodate up to 20 people with 2 boats. ( 10 passengers each) E...
$96
per adult
Private Rickshaw Tour of Santa Monica and Venice Beach
Relax as you take a ride on a private rickshaw along the streets and beaches of Santa Monica. Enjoy the fresh ocean breezes while touring the area to locations such as the Santa Monica Pier, Muscle Beach, Venice Boardwalk and the Venice Skate...
$120
per adult
Southern California 2 Day Beginner Surf Adventure
Treat yourself to the ultimate Southern California experience with this 2-day surfing trip. Over one weekend, immerse yourself in both ocean and mountain environments, and sleep under the stars. Learn how to surf and become a surfer in a rela...
$365
per adult
Marina Del Rey Luxury Boat Cruise Wine, Charcuterie Sealions
Embark on a lavish aquatic journey aboard a Duffy boat, and enjoy this experience specially curated for an enchanting blend of luxury and adventure. Cruise through breathtaking waters with your experienced captain, offering you front-row seats to obs...
$131
per adult
Luxury Cruise with Wine, Cheese & Sea Lions
Enjoy wine and charcuterie board with a selection of meat, cheeses, and fruit while cruising in a fully electric Duffy boat along Los Angeles' largest marina. Start from the dock where the boat is parked and make your way towards the main channel of...
$105
per adult
Griffith Park Observatory Comedy Tour
Join your local guide for a walk right to Griffith Observatory! Be guided up the best path to get to the Observatory as your host entertains you with fun historical facts and stories relating to one of the most recognizable signs in the world. In ad...
$22
per adult
LA Medieval Torture Museum Ticket with Audio Guide and Ghost Hunting
The Torture Museum Ticket includes admission to the unique exhibition that covers more than 7,000 sqft, audioguide (available in English and Spanish) and the Ghost Hunting Experience.
$30
per adult
Mount Hollywood Hike
The view from Mount Hollywood is epic. Come see it for yourself on this fun, educational, and accessible hike in the city. On the way we'll talk about the city's original inhabitants, the development of the city, and the layout of the land as...
$60
per adult
Petersen Automotive Museum Private Highlights Tour
Enjoy a private 1-hour tour of the highlights of the Petersen Automotive Museum, which gives a more personalized and in-depth experience. The Petersen Automotive Museum boasts one of the largest vintage car collections in the world. See a vast array ...
$150
per adult
Holocaust Museum LA Admission Ticket
Founded in 1961 by Holocaust survivors, Holocaust Museum LA is the oldest museum of its kind in the United States. Its mission is to commemorate those who perished, honor those who survived, educate about the Holocaust, and inspire a more dignified a...
Battleship Iowa Museum Ticket
Learn about the Battleship of Presidents and see how sailors lived during your visit to the Battleship IOWA Museum. As you walk onboard you'll be greeted on the quarter deck and be given a safety briefing. Appreciate Iowa’s graceful, narrow lifted bo...
$26
per adult
Petersen Automotive Museum Vault Access
The Petersen Automotive Museum is home to one of the largest collections of automobiles in the world. Combine an admission ticket to current exhibits spanning 25 galleries with entry to the famous "Vault", which features over 250 vehicles from the la...
$42
per adult
Academy Museum of Motion Pictures Ticket
Experience the magic of cinema through the lens of those who participate in the creative, collaborative process of filmmaking with this entry ticket to the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles. Get access to the Dolby Family Terrace for s...
$22
per adult
Surf Lesson at Venice Beach
Learn how to hang ten with a surf lesson in Venice Beach. Before you head into the water, you’ll learn about board design and dynamics, ocean safety, surf etiquette, pop-up technique, and form. Plus, learn about California surf culture. The l...
$140
per adult
Surf Lesson 2 Hr. Santa Monica
Kapowui, was awarded best surf school in Venice beach for the last 5 years in a row.Kapowui is a family run business and and an icon of southern California. We live, eat, and dream surfing and teach surfing because we want to sh...
$145
per adult
Venice Beach Private Surfing Lessons
Immerse yourself in the SoCal lifestyle—and learn the basics of surfing in an accessible, hands-on way—with private surfing lessons. Choose from multiple convenient class times, and meet your instructor right on the legendary Venice Beach. Wi...
$125
per adult
Santa Monica: Bike and eBike Rentals with Map
Enjoy the best of Los Angeles with this self-guided bike ride that begins in Santa Monica near the famous Santa Monica Pier! Our Cannondale hybrid bikes are hybrids between comfort and performance and are excellent for riders of all ages and skill le...
$19
per adult
Venice Beach Private Surfing Lesson
Enjoy unique and personalized surfing lessons at one of Los Angeles’ top-rated surf schools that caters to all skill levels. Certified instructors with global teaching experience ensure you get quality lessons. Beginners receive comprehensive...
$99
per adult
Shared 2 Hour Small Group Surf Lesson in Santa Monica
Learn to surf at one of California’s most famous spots during this introductory surfing class at Venice Beach. This class is suitable for all levels, whether it's your first time surfing or you are advancing your skills. Spend some time train...
$85
per adult
Mulholland Trail Horseback Riding Tour
Ride up in the Hollywood Hills where you will get unforgettable views of the LA Basin and the Hollywood Sign. Embark on a relaxing horseback riding adventure through the spectacular hills of Griffith Park. Meet your tour guide and group at Sunset Ran...
$66
per adult
Shared 2 Hours Group Surf Lesson in Venice Beach
We are a surf school based on Venice Beach. Our goal is for you to have an excellent experience surfing, whether it's your first time trying surfing or you are trying to advance your skills. For the first 30-40 minutes we will be training on ...
$69
per adult