As one of the most recognizable cities in the world, no traveler hasn’t heard of Los Angeles, California. A 5 day itinerary in Los Angeles is an ideal amount of time to see so many things! I visited Los Angeles for the first time in 2018 Exploring this city is pretty extraordinary. I heard so many different languages I forgot I was still in the United States. You see history of the film industry, meet an eclectic amount of people, and eat some of the most amazing food you will ever taste.
The amount of things to do here are endless, literally.
One day you’ll end up surfing in Venice with Italians or Australians and the next you’ll be doing a city food tour full of incredible dishes. Savor it all!
There were so many options of activities and we chose accordingly and affordably! Here’s how I spent my first 5 days in Los Angeles.
How to get around
I don’t recommend renting a car. Parking is a hassle and expensive. Plus you will have to pay for the rental, gas, and insurance. It is honestly not worth it.
Instead use:
- Uber Pool/ Uber Pool Express – prices are very reasonable, you share a ride with someone already going to your destination, and you don’t have to pay the outrageous parking prices!
- Walk/Rent a bike/Bird scooter – Of course, walking is great exercise and a good way to see a portion of the city. Renting a bike is great if you go to Santa Monica or Venice beach and you can ride along the boardwalk. You will see these black electric scooters just about on every corner, use them! Download the Bird app and you scan the code on the top of the scooter to use it. The app gives you instructions on how to start it and use it and it will just charge your card at the end of your ride whenever you stop and park it. And yes, you can just leave it wherever at your destination! The scooter is great for very short trips that you don’t want to walk.
I think I maybe spent $150 on transportation over the course of 5 days. Yep.
Where to stay: Definitely research Hostelworld.com if you’re okay with sharing your space. The Venice Beach Hostel appeared quite popular and ran about $30 USD a night! If not, there are many cheap options on Airbnb.
[Use this link for $40 credit when you sign up]
What to do
There is so much to see and eat in this city it’s unbelievable! I’ve compiled a list of everything I did in the 5 days I visited below:
LACMA – Los Angeles County Museum of Art! If art is your scene, the $25 entrance ticket is worth it. If not, walking along the grounds and viewing the urban lights are completely free!
The Grove – a great place to grab a drink and a bite to eat! If you can afford it, hit the numerous designer shops!
Catch a Comedy Show – The Comedy Store on Sunset Boulevard is historic. Always a great option and surprisingly affordable for how many big stars perform there! Go have a laugh! I got general admission tickets for $20/ person and $16 worth of drinks while watching the show.
The Griffith Observatory
Visiting the Observatory is FREE! (unless you want to see special exhibits) However, all of the things you can see for free are amazing. You can look through telescopes and read exerts about planets, stars, and elements that make up the vast universe. And don’t even get me started on the view of the city from here… it is truly stunning
Hike the Hollywood Sign
A must do when visiting Los Angeles! This hike provides amazing views and a great way to meet people (as there are always people here hiking). Bring a light jacket for this; The wind at the top is rough. (Yes, it was very cold with no shirt on!)
Surf at Venice Beach/Walk along the Boardwalk
As my first time surfing, this was very difficult, yet a lot of fun! Stop off at a rental shop and rent a board and wet suit about $45 all day!
Also take a walk along the boardwalk and you’ll find these wind pipe chairs in between the Santa Monica pier and Venice Beach!
The Venice Canals Historic District
Just a short walk across the street from Venice Beach you’ll find the these canals. Stop by here and admire the eclectic homes along the way.
The Last Bookstore
The Harry Potter-esque bookstore is famous for a reason. Choose any genre and you’ll find it here. It’s 2 stories and filled with old and new books, some on shelves, and some in old bank vaults. You will also find this picture-esque bookshelf (pictured below) on the 2nd floor!
Where to eat
Again you can’t go wrong here. You can end up at a old, dirty looking food truck and the food will still probably amazing. It’s all about your preference though!
Grand Central Market – endless options of food here. Walk around and take your pick! Highly recommend Sarita’s Pupuseria!
The Original Farmer’s Market – Yet again, numerous options for food. Just walking around is sensory overload (in a good way). Choose anything from a large caramel apple to a huge slab of any kind of meat.
Gracias Madre – In West Hollywood you will find this amazing place. Go at happy hour during the week M-F 3-6 PM where you can choose from $7 plates and drinks. Well worth it for the quality and location. (honestly would’ve paid full price for this food)
Milk – famous from California, their macaroon ice cream sandwiches are to die for.
Sidecar Donuts – I honestly believe they’re better than California donuts. I’ve never had a better donut anywhere. Go here, you won’t be disappointed.
EggSlut – Their specialties, Slut & Buttermilk biscuit are famous. Be prepared to wait in a long line!
Save this 5 day itinerary in Los Angeles for later!
For more highlights of popular US cities, visit my Top Photo Spots in Houston
If you enjoyed this, give it a thumbs up and leave a comment if you’ve been to/done any of these activities in LA!
