5-Day L.A. Escape: Unusual Spots for Foodie Couples Who Love Shopping

Los Angeles, California

5 days

Venice Beach Surf Van
Downtown skyline
Rainbow lifeguard shack
Skyline
Skyline with palm trees

About Los Angeles, California

Experience the vibrant culture and iconic landmarks of Los Angeles, California. This bustling city offers a blend of world-class cuisine, thriving nightlife, and an array of entertainment options. Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Universal Studios, or the Getty Center for a taste of LA's rich history and creativity. Explore the trendy boutiques in Rodeo Drive, or unwind at the serene beaches of Santa Monica and Venice. Don't miss the breathtaking views from the Griffith Observatory and the vibrant art scene in downtown LA. With its diverse neighborhoods and endless activities, Los Angeles promises an unforgettable travel experience.

5-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring Downtown LA and Los Feliz

Morning

Start your day with a leisurely stroll around the Los Feliz neighborhood, known for its laid-back vibe and charming streets. Stop by a local bakery for a fresh pastry and coffee.

Lunch

Head to the Grand Central Market in Downtown LA. This bustling food hall offers a variety of cuisines, perfect for a midday meal.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring The Broad, a contemporary art museum featuring works from some of the most renowned artists of our time.

Dinner

Enjoy a romantic dinner at a rooftop restaurant in Downtown LA, offering panoramic views of the city.

Evening

End your day with a performance at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, a stunning architectural landmark known for its acoustics.

Morning

Begin your day in the Venice neighborhood, taking a walk along the Venice Canals Walkway, a picturesque area reminiscent of Venice, Italy.

Lunch

Enjoy a picnic lunch on the sands of Venice Beach, one of the city's most famous beaches.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon shopping on Abbot Kinney Boulevard, known for its unique boutiques and art galleries.

Dinner

Have dinner at a trendy farm-to-table restaurant in Venice, offering fresh, locally-sourced dishes.

Evening

End your day with a leisurely stroll along the Venice Beach Boardwalk, taking in the vibrant nightlife.

Morning

Start your day in the Silver Lake neighborhood, exploring its trendy boutiques and coffee shops.

Lunch

Have lunch at a popular food truck in Silver Lake, offering a variety of cuisines.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon at the Griffith Observatory, offering stunning views of the city and the stars.

Dinner

Enjoy a romantic dinner at a cozy bistro in Los Feliz, known for its intimate atmosphere and delicious food.

Evening

End your day with a movie at the historic Vista Theatre, a landmark in the Los Feliz neighborhood.

Morning

Begin your day in the Malibu area, taking a scenic drive along the Pacific Coast Highway.

Lunch

Have lunch at a seaside restaurant in Malibu, offering fresh seafood and stunning ocean views.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Getty Villa, a museum dedicated to the arts and cultures of ancient Greece, Rome, and Etruria.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner at a chic restaurant in Santa Monica, offering a variety of cuisines.

Evening

End your day with a walk along the Santa Monica Pier, taking in the vibrant nightlife and stunning ocean views.

Morning

Start your day in the Beverly Hills area, taking a leisurely stroll along Rodeo Drive, known for its luxury boutiques.

Lunch

Have lunch at a trendy cafe in Beverly Hills, offering a variety of healthy and delicious options.

Afternoon

Spend the afternoon exploring the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA), the largest art museum in the western United States.

Dinner

Enjoy a romantic dinner at a rooftop restaurant in West Hollywood, offering panoramic views of the city.

Evening

End your trip with a performance at the Hollywood Bowl, a historic amphitheater known for its concerts and performances.

Attractions in Itinerary (16)

Los Feliz

1
Los Feliz

A trendy area known for its historic homes, hipster vibes, and the Griffith Observatory. It's also home to some of the city's most beloved spots like the Alcove Cafe & Bakery, Skylight Books, and the Vista Theatre.

Neighborhoods
Grand Central Market

2
Grand Central Market

A downtown landmark since 1917, brings together the cuisines and cultures of LA. It's a great place to enjoy delicious food from various cuisines, shop for groceries, and explore the vibrant food scene of Los Angeles.

Food and Drink
Shopping
The Broad

3
The Broad

A contemporary art museum on Grand Avenue in Downtown Los Angeles.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Walt Disney Concert Hall

4
Walt Disney Concert Hall

A concert hall in downtown Los Angeles, home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic orchestra and the Los Angeles Master Chorale.

Attractions
Architecture
Cultural Experiences
Venice Canals Walkway

5
Venice Canals Walkway

A scenic and historic district in the Venice section of Los Angeles, known for its man-made canals built in 1905 by developer Abbot Kinney as part of his Venice of America plan.

Attractions
Landmarks
Venice Beach

6
Venice Beach

A residential, commercial, and recreational beachfront neighborhood within Los Angeles, California. Known for its canals, beaches, and the ocean-front walk, a two-and-a-half-mile pedestrian promenade that features performers, fortune-tellers, artists and vendors.

Beaches
Entertainment
Sports
Abbot Kinney Boulevard

7
Abbot Kinney Boulevard

Abbot Kinney Boulevard is a mile-long stretch of road in Venice, Los Angeles, known for its trendy shops, unique boutiques, and a variety of restaurants and food trucks. It's also known for its First Fridays event, where food trucks gather and shops stay open late.

Shopping
Food and Drink
Neighborhoods
Silver Lake

8
Silver Lake

Silver Lake is a trendy neighborhood in Los Angeles, known for its indie music scene, trendy eateries, and eclectic shops. It's a popular spot for young professionals and creatives, offering a vibrant and dynamic community.

Neighborhoods
Griffith Observatory

9
Griffith Observatory

Located in Griffith Park, the Griffith Observatory offers a night hike that allows visitors to explore the stars. The observatory itself is a popular tourist attraction, with a planetarium and exhibits on astronomy.

Attractions
Museums
Landmarks
Vista Theatre

10
Vista Theatre

Vista Theatre is a historic single-screen movie theater in Los Angeles, known for its Egyptian-themed architecture and grand interior. It's a popular spot for movie buffs and offers a unique movie-going experience.

Entertainment
Landmarks
Pacific Coast Highway

11
Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway is a scenic drive in Los Angeles, offering stunning views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean. It's a popular route for road trips and offers numerous spots for sightseeing along the way.

Attractions
Tours
Getty Villa

12
Getty Villa

The Getty Villa is a museum in Los Angeles, showcasing ancient Greek and Roman art and architecture. It's a replica of a Roman country house and offers a unique cultural experience.

Museums
Architecture
Cultural Experiences
Santa Monica Pier

13
Santa Monica Pier

A large double-jointed pier at the foot of Colorado Avenue in Santa Monica, California, with an amusement park, restaurants, and areas for views and fishing.

Attractions
Beaches
Entertainment
Rodeo Drive

14
Rodeo Drive

A two-mile-long street, primarily in Beverly Hills, California, with its southern segment in the City of Los Angeles, known for its luxury-goods stores.

Shopping
Landmarks
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

15
Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA)

The largest art museum in the western United States, with a collection of over 142,000 objects that illuminate 6,000 years of artistic expression across the globe.

Museums
Cultural Experiences
Hollywood Bowl

16
Hollywood Bowl

An amphitheater in the Hollywood Hills neighborhood of Los Angeles, California. It is known for its band shell, a distinctive set of concentric arches that graced the site from 1929 through 2003.

Attractions
Entertainment
Landmarks

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Fish Tacos

Fish Tacos

A popular dish in Los Angeles, fish tacos are a must-try. They are made with grilled or fried fish, cabbage, and a creamy sauce, all wrapped in a corn tortilla.

French Dip Sandwich

French Dip Sandwich

A sandwich that originated in Los Angeles, it consists of thinly sliced roast beef served on a French roll. It is typically served with a side of 'au jus' for dipping.

California Roll

California Roll

A sushi roll that was invented in Los Angeles. It typically includes avocado, crab meat, and cucumber.

Street Dogs

Street Dogs

A popular late-night snack in Los Angeles, street dogs are bacon-wrapped hot dogs topped with grilled onions and bell peppers.

Korean BBQ

Korean BBQ

Los Angeles is home to a large Korean community and Korean BBQ is a must-try. It typically includes a variety of marinated meats that are grilled at your table.

Avocado Toast

Avocado Toast

A popular breakfast item in Los Angeles, avocado toast is made with ripe avocado spread on whole grain bread and topped with various toppings.

Churros

Churros

A popular dessert in Los Angeles, churros are fried dough pastries coated in sugar and often served with a side of chocolate for dipping.

Craft Beer

Craft Beer

Los Angeles has a thriving craft beer scene. There are many local breweries that offer a wide variety of unique and flavorful beers.

Green Juice

Green Juice

A popular health drink in Los Angeles, green juice is made with a blend of green vegetables and fruits.

Bobba Tea

Bobba Tea

A popular drink in Los Angeles, Bobba tea or bubble tea is a Taiwanese tea-based drink with chewy tapioca balls.

Margarita

Margarita

A popular cocktail in Los Angeles, Margaritas are made with tequila, lime juice, and triple sec, often served with salt on the rim of the glass.

California Wine

California Wine

California is known for its wine. There are many local wineries in and around Los Angeles that produce a wide variety of wines.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Los Angeles, California is from March to May and between September and November. During these months, the city experiences pleasant weather with fewer crowds. The spring and fall seasons offer mild temperatures, making it perfect for sightseeing and beach activities. Moreover, airfare and hotel rates are generally more affordable during these periods compared to the summer months.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 15

Mon

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

February 19

Mon

Presidents' Day

May 27

Mon

Memorial Day

June 19

Wed

Juneteenth

July 4

Thu

Independence Day

September 2

Mon

Labor Day

October 14

Mon

Columbus Day

November 11

Mon

Veterans Day

November 28

Thu

Thanksgiving Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around Los Angeles. The city is spread out and having a car gives you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Most major car rental companies have locations at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and throughout the city.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in Los Angeles. They can be a convenient option for getting around, especially if you're planning to visit areas with limited parking or if you prefer not to drive.

Los Angeles has a network of buses and trains operated by the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro). The Metro Rail system includes six lines that serve different parts of the city, including downtown, Hollywood, and Santa Monica. The Metro Bus system covers the entire city and surrounding areas.

Los Angeles has been expanding its network of bike lanes and paths, making cycling a viable way to get around certain parts of the city. The city also has a bike share program, Metro Bike Share, which allows you to rent bikes for short trips.

While Los Angeles is known for being spread out, many of its neighborhoods are walkable. Areas like Downtown, Santa Monica, and Hollywood have plenty of attractions within walking distance of each other.

Taxis are available throughout Los Angeles, although they can be more expensive than other options. They can be hailed on the street in busy areas, but in quieter neighborhoods, you may need to call a taxi company to arrange a pickup.

Several companies offer shuttle services to and from LAX and other popular destinations in Los Angeles. These can be a convenient option if you're traveling with a large group or have a lot of luggage.

For a more luxurious experience, consider hiring a private car or limousine service. These services typically offer door-to-door transportation and can be booked in advance.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ USD

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone911

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about Los Angeles, California as a first time visitor

1

Los Angeles is a sprawling city, so it's best to plan your activities around specific neighborhoods to minimize travel time.

2

Public transportation is available but not always reliable or convenient, so consider renting a car or using rideshare apps.

3

Parking can be challenging in some areas, so always check parking signs to avoid tickets.

4

Los Angeles is known for its traffic, so try to avoid rush hour times if possible.

5

The weather is generally mild, but it can get quite hot in the summer with temperatures often reaching over 90°F (32°C).

6

Even though it's sunny most of the year, it can get chilly at night, especially in the winter, so bring a light jacket.

7

Los Angeles is a very diverse city with many different cultures, so be respectful of all people and customs.

8

Tipping is customary in Los Angeles. A tip of 15-20% is standard for restaurants, taxis, and other service providers.

9

Los Angeles is in the Pacific Time Zone and observes daylight saving time.

10

Los Angeles has strict smoking laws. Smoking is banned in most public places, including beaches and parks.

11

Los Angeles has a plastic bag ban, so bring your own reusable bags when shopping.

12

Los Angeles has a lot of street food vendors, especially in areas like Downtown and East LA. Always check for health department grades before eating.

13

Los Angeles is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own unique vibe and attractions. Do some research to find the ones that interest you most.

14

Los Angeles is a casual city, but some high-end restaurants and clubs have dress codes.

15

Los Angeles has a significant homeless population, particularly in areas like Skid Row and Venice Beach.

16

Los Angeles is prone to earthquakes. Familiarize yourself with basic earthquake safety tips.

17

Los Angeles has a high cost of living, so budget accordingly.

18

Los Angeles has many farmers markets offering fresh, local produce. They're worth checking out.

19

Los Angeles is a city that never sleeps, so be prepared for noise, especially in busier neighborhoods.

20

Los Angeles has a lot of hills and uneven sidewalks, so wear comfortable shoes for walking.

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Lightweight clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • Sleepwear

  • Swimsuit

  • Sunglasses

  • Hat for sun protection

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Flip flops for the beach

  • Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Sunscreen

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • First-aid kit with band-aids and antiseptic wipes

  • Prescription medications

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Passport or ID

  • Boarding passes

  • Hotel reservation confirmations

  • Car rental confirmations

  • Travel insurance documents

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash

  • Guidebook or map

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone

  • Charger for smartphone

  • Headphones

  • Camera

  • Charger for camera

  • Power bank

  • Adapter plug (if traveling from abroad)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Reusable water bottle

  • Snacks for the journey

  • Books or magazines for the flight

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Earplugs and eye mask

  • Tote bag for beach or shopping

  • Umbrella or rain jacket (just in case)

  • Travel laundry detergent packets

Weather Conditions

Los Angeles, California, is known for its Mediterranean climate, which means it has warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. The city is sunny nearly 300 days a year, making it a great destination for sun-seekers. In the summer months, from June to August, temperatures can reach up to 85°F (29°C), but the heat is usually dry and not humid. It's a good idea to pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. However, the evenings can cool down, so bringing a light jacket or sweater is recommended. In the fall, from September to November, the weather remains warm but becomes less intense, with temperatures ranging from 79°F (26°C) during the day to around 59°F (15°C) at night. This is a great time to visit if you want to avoid the summer crowds but still enjoy warm weather. Winter, from December to February, is the wettest season in Los Angeles, but it's still relatively mild compared to other parts of the country. Temperatures can range from 68°F (20°C) during the day to 48°F (9°C) at night. It's advisable to pack a waterproof jacket or umbrella. Spring, from March to May, sees temperatures gradually warming up from the winter, with highs reaching up to 75°F (24°C) and lows around 55°F (13°C). This is a beautiful time to visit as the city is in bloom. Regardless of the time of year, it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip as weather can vary. Also, remember that Los Angeles is a large city with microclimates, so temperatures can differ significantly between the coast and inland areas. Always stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, especially if you're not used to the heat.

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

20° / 8°

January is the coldest month in Los Angeles, but it's still relatively mild with occasional rain.

February

21° / 9°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, with a mix of sunny and rainy days.

March

22° / 10°

March marks the beginning of spring, with temperatures gradually rising and more sunny days.

April

24° / 12°

April is a pleasant month with moderate temperatures and plenty of sunshine.

May

25° / 14°

May is a beautiful month to visit, with warm temperatures and clear skies.

June

28° / 16°

June is the start of summer, with long sunny days and warm temperatures.

July

30° / 18°

July is the hottest month in Los Angeles, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration.

August

30° / 18°

August continues the summer heat, with high temperatures and sunny days.

September

29° / 17°

September is a great month to visit, with slightly cooler temperatures and less crowded tourist spots.

October

26° / 14°

October offers comfortable temperatures and less crowded beaches, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

November

23° / 11°

November sees a drop in temperature, but it's still warm enough for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

December

20° / 8°

December is a cooler month with shorter days, but it's still a great time to visit for holiday festivities.

Did you know?

Did you know that Los Angeles is the largest city in the state of California and the second largest city in the United States?

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Places near by Los Angeles, California

Santa Monica Pier

Santa Monica Pier

A large double-jointed pier at the foot of Colorado Avenue in Santa Monica, California, with an amusement park, restaurants, and shops.

30m
26.5 km / 16.5 mi
How to get there
Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Resort

A world-famous amusement park featuring iconic attractions, entertainment, and shopping venues.

45m
41.8 km / 26.0 mi
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Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree National Park

A vast protected area in southern California featuring rugged rock formations and stark desert landscapes.

2.5h
225 km / 139.8 mi
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Laguna Beach

Laguna Beach

A small coastal city known for its many art galleries, coves, and beaches.

1.5h
80.5 km / 50.0 mi
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Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara

A city on the central California coast known for its Mediterranean-style white stucco buildings, upscale boutiques, and restaurants.

2h
159 km / 98.8 mi
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San Diego Zoo

San Diego Zoo

A world-renowned zoo housing over 3,500 animals of more than 650 species and subspecies.

2h
195 km / 121.2 mi
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Palm Springs

Palm Springs

A city in the Sonoran Desert known for its hot springs, stylish hotels, golf courses, and spas.

2h
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Solvang

Solvang

A city in southern California's Santa Ynez Valley known for its Danish-style architecture and many wineries.

2.5h
207 km / 128.6 mi
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San Diego

San Diego

A city on the Pacific coast of California known for its beaches, parks, and warm climate.

2h
195 km / 121.2 mi
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Las Vegas

Las Vegas

A vibrant city known for its 24-hour casinos, entertainment shows, and nightlife.

1.5h
435 km / 270.3 mi
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Other Destinations in California