3 perfect days in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is a city with sprawl like few others. Covering over 500 square miles, L.A. claims a number of diverse neighborhoods where you can get a taste of the city’s many personalities—from bustling streets to elegant museums and sandy coastlines. And sorry, one L.A. stereotype holds true: You will need a car to fully appreciate this town, so pick up a rental and then follow this itinerary to enjoy three perfect days in Los Angeles.

Day One: Sweet, sweet sunshine

Tart Restaurant | Photo courtesy of the Farmer’s Daughters Hotel

Start your trip by checking into the Farmer’s Daughter Hotel, a trendy boutique property that offers “down-home hospitality” in an ultra modern setting. This off-beat accommodation near the Miracle Mile makes it about as central as you can get, accessible from two major freeways. Once you’ve settled in, stop for a snack or drink at the hotel’s restaurant Tart; they’ll give you 50% off your brunch order if you jump into the hotel’s adjacent pool fully clothed. Deal. Now it’s time to explore.

Point Dume | Photo courtesy of Amy Ratcliffe

Southern California is renowned for its sunny climate, so take advantage of the weather while you’re in town. Drive west toward the beach, find the Pacific Coast Highway, and then go north. Youcan visitbeaches near Santa Monica, but for a less-crowded experience, traverse the extra miles up to Malibu. Go to Point Dume and take Westward Beach Road until it ends. Jump into the water, watch surfers and rock climbers, and scout for dolphins. You can even take an easy stroll up to the top of the Point for prime sunset viewing. On your drive back, hit Cholada Thai Cuisine for dinner.

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Day Two: Museum city

Start day two by strolling down the street to the Original Farmer’s Market at 3rd and Fairfax. Fuel up for the day with a sweet or savory option from The French Crepe Company, or grab coffee and a doughnut from Bob’s Coffee.

Onward. You’ll find museumsin every corner of L.A., so rather than spending the entire day at just one, go museum hopping and sample as many as you can. We suggest you start at the Petersen Automotive Museum, less than a mile from the market, where you’ll learn about the artistry of automobiles, how the industry has evolved, and the role of cars in Hollywood.

Paley Center | Photo courtesy of the Paley Center

Next, drive west to The Paley Center for Media in Beverly Hills. There, you might find an exhibit highlighting South Park or daytime television. You can access their extensive archives to take a trip through media history. Afterward, pause for a sandwich andpickles at Nate’n Al Delicatessen.

The Museum of Jurassic Technology | Flickr CC: Sascha Pohflepp

Ready for one more cultural experience? Point your car toward Culver City and go to the Museum of Jurassic Technology. A Soviet space dog gallery, floral radiographs, micromosaics—it’s the sort of place you have to see to believe. Finally, for nosh and drinks, go to the aptly named Lobster & Beer in West L.A. You’ve earned it.

Day Three: Delicious sightseeing

Make the most of your last day by sampling some of L.A.’s most delicious fare as you wander around. First stop: Little Tokyo. The neighborhood features unique architecture, shopping and sights like the James Irvine Japanese Garden. Restore energy with a stop at Daikokuya for ramen (yes, even if it’s hot) and snag mochi ice cream from Mikawaya, an old favorite for Japanese ice cream and sweets.

Chinese Theatre | Flickr CC: hjjaniscsh

Next, complete your Los Angeles experience by spending time in one of the most bustling parts of town: Hollywood and Highland. The intersection is like the Times Square of the city, with souvenir shops, costumed street performers and throngs of tourists gawking at celebrity hand prints on the Walk of Fame. Be sure to visit iconic Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and take in a movie if you have time. You’ll recognize the theater’s entrance as the red-carpet backdrop for countless movie premieres. The Dolby Theatre, The Egyptian, and other iconic entertainment attractions are all within walking distance.

Venture a couple miles away from the bustle to enjoy Roscoe’s House of Chicken and Waffles’ signature dish or satisfy your craving for pulled pork at The Oinkster. Both are great options. Then cool down with a coffee milkshake from Mel’s Drive-In and this concludes your tour of the city of Los Angeles.

Tagged: California, Los Angeles