Los Angeles, or LA, is one of the most famous US cities. It’s got some amazing sights, and you can feel like a film star as you explore. Plus, you can see so many of the main sights in a day. So here’s how to enjoy the best of Los Angeles in a day.
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How should I visit LA for a day?
LA really is a year-round destination. You can have a great day in LA at any time of the year. My top tip for how to enjoy the best of Los Angeles in a day is just to get outside, whatever the weather, and enjoy it.
Los Angeles airport is a major transport hub with many flights changing here every day. If you’re lucky enough to have a long stopover on your flight, consider spending your day in LA. There are so many fun things to do that make a stopover really worthwhile. You can also visit LA by train – check out what it’s like to travel by train in the USA in my blog post here.
Summers in LA can be very hot, so if you’re visiting in the summer you might want to consider spending a lot of your day on the beach. However, if you fancy shopping, you can do some shopping in the summer as well. So many of the shops are air conditioned so you can have a break from the heat. Winters in LA don’t tend to be too cold, so it really is a year-round destination.
Public transport in LA can be limited. If you’re short of time and trying to visit lots of places in a day, I’d recommend either hiring a car or taking a taxi/uber. Uber is well used in LA and can be a lot cheaper than conventional taxis. Alternatively, a day tour or half day tour could be an option although it gives you less flexibility.
How should I spend a day in Los Angeles?
When you’re planning your trip to Los Angeles, I’d recommend taking this great Los Angeles travel guide with you (affiliate). The helpful map will mean you’ll easily be able to find all of the top sights.
Hollywood Sign and views over the city
My top tip for how to enjoy the best of Los Angeles in a day is to start off with LA’s most iconic sight. The Hollywood Sign is a definite must for any visit, so I’d recommend starting your day with this iconic sight. You don’t want to risk missing it.
You’re not allowed to get too close to the Hollywood sign, but you can still get close enough for a great photo. Just think of all the famous people who have seen this sign, and imagine you’re a film star with them.
There’s also a great view over LA from the top of the hill here. Make sure you turn around to enjoy the view over the city, and try to look through all the smog!
Walk of Fame and Hand Prints of the Stars
Another of the most famous sights in LA is the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Walk along and spot names you recognise on the stars on the pavement.
There’s also the hand prints as well outside Grauman’s Chinese Theatre. Put your hands where film stars have, and be surprised at how much bigger or smaller your hands are compared to the film stars! If you’re looking for a particular star, check out the website here.
Shopping in Beverley Hills
Continue your day of feeling like a film star with a shopping trip to Beverley Hills. Follow in the footsteps of film stars, like Julia Roberts in Pretty Woman, as you browse the luxury shops. Treat yourself to something special, or just marvel at the high prices!
Santa Monica beach and pier
After a busy time seeing some of the iconic sights of LA, I’d recommend spending the rest of your afternoon at Santa Monica beach and pier. The beach at Santa Monica is huge with beautiful golden sand, so it’s perfect to relax.
I’d recommend spending some time on the pier as well, looking around at the stalls, games and rides. It’s a great place to have some fun and create some more great memories. If you’ve got more time you could also look at heading over the Venice Beach as well.
Watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean
For a perfect end to your day in LA, find somewhere to watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean. Seeing the pink sky behind the California palm trees is the perfect end to a day in Los Angeles.
Enjoy your day in Los Angeles! And remember to get this great travel guide (affiliate) ready for your trip. And why not spend some more time exploring the beautiful California. For great scenery, head to Big Sur and Yosemite National Park. For a beautiful beach, check out Santa Barbara. Or if you want another big city, San Francisco is great fun. Travelling on the Amtrak trains can also be a great way to explore Los Angeles and other cities – check out the best Amtrak train routes in the USA here.
It’s hard to fit all the best of L.A. into just a day, but this itinerary comes as close as you can get! I think Santa Monica Beach and Beverly Hills are two must-dos. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks! There are so many great things to do in LA, I love the city.
I got lost at LA airport a few years ago & nearly missed my onward flight & unfortunately I didnt have time to see the sights. Next time I’ll try to take more time in LA as Santa Monica beach & Pier sound especially appealing & of course there’s Hollywood too! Thanks so much for sharing!
LA airport is massive, it can be so easy to get lost! Hope you’re able to go back soon so you have a chance to visit the sites, it’s a really fun city.
It’s been ages since I was in LA! I remember Santa Monica and a Parrot crawling on my head and going to sleep. 🤣 great reminder of fun things to do in LA.
That’s amazing! Sounds like you had a great trip with fun memories!