Discovering the Best Los Angeles Travel Places: Your Ultimate Guide

Los Angeles, a city synonymous with sunshine, entertainment, and diverse culture, often feels like a familiar destination even for first-time visitors. For those who have spent considerable time here, like myself, LA is a place that continually reinvents itself, offering new experiences alongside beloved classics. After a break from frequent visits, returning to Los Angeles recently was a chance to rediscover its magic through fresh eyes and curate a guide to the essential “Los Angeles Travel Places” for any itinerary. This isn’t just a list of attractions; it’s a curated selection of experiences to craft your perfect day in LA.

Exploring Top Los Angeles Travel Destinations: A Curated Guide

Essential Information for Your Los Angeles Trip

Before diving into specific “los angeles travel places”, some practicalities are crucial for a smooth visit.

Navigating Covid & Safety: It’s worth noting that Los Angeles has a relaxed approach to Covid-related measures. While mask mandates might be in place, adherence can be varied, and proof of vaccination for indoor dining may not always be strictly enforced. It’s always wise to check current guidelines before your trip and pack accordingly based on your comfort levels.

Arrival Options: Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is the primary gateway, but Burbank Airport (BUR) offers a less chaotic alternative. If the price difference isn’t substantial, opting for Burbank can save you from the often-mentioned disarray at LAX, which has been undergoing seemingly perpetual construction.

Transportation within LA: While ride-sharing services like Lyft are readily available, be prepared for potentially longer wait times than you might expect, averaging 10-20 minutes. Public transportation exists, but for visitors, ride-sharing is often the most convenient. Driving in LA is generally discouraged due to notorious traffic and parking challenges. However, for specific activities like exploring filming locations or scenic drives through neighborhoods like those featured in “Insecure”, renting a car for a day can be worthwhile for flexibility. A car allows for spontaneous detours, such as a drive to Malibu, to see more “los angeles travel places” at your own pace.

Packing Essentials for Your LA Adventure

Los Angeles embodies a relaxed yet stylish vibe. Think “California cool”—casual, comfortable, and effortlessly trendy. Jeans paired with fashionable tops are a staple. Comfortable flats are practical for getting around, balanced with some chic pieces to fit in with the local style.

Regarding climate, Los Angeles weather can be surprisingly mild, even cooler than expected. The dry heat is less intense than humid climates, but evenings can get chilly, dropping into the high 40s Fahrenheit. Daytime temperatures can reach around 70°F. It’s essential to check the forecast closer to your travel dates as a warm, sunny vacation isn’t always guaranteed year-round. Layering is key to comfortably exploring “los angeles travel places” throughout the day and evening.

Choosing Your Ideal Los Angeles Accommodation

Safety is a growing consideration when selecting accommodation in Los Angeles. Downtown LA is generally advised against due to a significant homeless population. Venice has also been mentioned as having similar concerns, though experiences can vary. For a balance of safety and access to attractions, consider areas bordering Beverly Hills and West Hollywood.

Beverly Hills offers luxury and elegance, while West Hollywood is known for its vibrant, youthful energy and walkability, particularly around iconic spots like The Abbey and Pump. Staying on the edge of these areas provides access to both upscale residential neighborhoods and lively entertainment scenes. The Montrose Beverly Hills hotel, while mentioned as needing updates, offers a strategic location. Its residential setting allows for pleasant neighborhood strolls, while still being close to West Hollywood’s attractions. The rooftop pool and lounge are highlights, and amenities like an on-site restaurant and convenience store add to the convenience. Rooms are spacious and feature fireplaces, a cozy touch. While it might not be a definitive recommendation for a repeat stay, it serves as a well-located, reasonably priced option for exploring “los angeles travel places”.

Indulging in Los Angeles’ Culinary Hotspots

Dining out is a highlight of any trip, and Los Angeles boasts a diverse and exciting food scene. Having explored numerous restaurants over many visits, here are some top recommendations for “los angeles travel places” to eat:

Gjelina: A consistently top choice, Gjelina on Abbot Kinney Blvd in Venice is a must-visit. The raclette pizza with caramelized onions is a standout dish, and the entire menu is consistently impressive. While a recent visit had minor appetizer and pasta mishaps, the pizzas remained phenomenal. Reservations are essential, or opt for takeout from GTA (Gjelina Take Away) nearby.

Delicious Raclette Pizza at Gjelina, a must-try Los Angeles Travel Place

Elephante: Close to surpassing Gjelina as a favorite, Elephante in Santa Monica offers breathtaking sunset views. Request a reservation in the sunset room an hour before sunset to fully appreciate the panoramic beach and palm tree vistas, free from street-level distractions. The ambiance is stylish, and the menu features delicious pizzas and drinks. The whipped eggplant dip with puffed pita is a popular choice, though perhaps for a return visit, offering another reason to come back and experience this top “los angeles travel place”.

The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker: This charming breakfast spot on Sunset in West Hollywood is perfect for a delightful morning. Known for their visually stunning color-burst cappuccinos (though at $15, they’re a splurge!), the food is equally appealing, and the décor is inviting. Reservations are highly recommended, as wait times can be long, even on weekdays. A fun bonus: it’s located across from The Oppenheim Group office from the Netflix show “Selling Sunset,” though its operational status seemed unclear during the visit.

Colorful Cappuccino at The Butcher, The Baker, The Cappuccino Maker in West Hollywood

Fatburger: A fantastic alternative to In-N-Out Burger, Fatburger, brought to attention by “The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills,” offers a wider menu, including vegetarian options. It proved to be a hit with the entire group, offering a tasty and satisfying meal for everyone.

Unmissable Activities and Los Angeles Travel Places

Los Angeles offers an overwhelming array of activities. Narrowing it down to must-do “los angeles travel places”, here are some highlights:

Griffith Observatory: The panoramic view from Griffith Observatory is simply spectacular, encompassing the entire LA basin, especially magical at sunset. However, the popularity means large crowds. Arriving early (around 3 hours before sunset) is recommended to explore the observatory itself, a free space and science center with engaging exhibits. Check opening hours, as weekend access may be limited. After exploring indoors, secure a spot outside for sunset viewing. Bring a blanket and snacks for a memorable evening overlooking the city.

Late Night Comedy Show: Experiencing LA’s comedy scene is highly recommended. You never know if a famous comedian might drop in for a surprise set. Local clubs often host celebrities testing new material, offering an insider’s glimpse into the industry. The Comedy Store is a reliable option for last-minute plans, but The Laugh Factory, particularly their Chocolate Sundaes show, is another excellent choice, especially with pre-booked tickets.

Explore Santa Monica: Santa Monica offers a desirable blend of beachside relaxation and city amenities. While Venice boardwalk may be less appealing currently, Santa Monica provides a cleaner, more enjoyable beach experience. Rent bikes or stroll along the paths. The Santa Monica Pier is a classic tourist attraction, especially fun for families. For a relaxed Sunday vibe, Bungalow in Santa Monica, with its house-and-yard setting, is a great bar/restaurant for “Sunday Funday”.

Walk of Fame: A quintessential LA tourist spot, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is worth a quick visit, despite being busy like Times Square. Start at the TCL Chinese Theatre and wander along Hollywood Boulevard, spotting stars of your favorite celebrities. It’s a quick and easy activity if you’re in the Hollywood area.

This recent Los Angeles visit, while different from previous ones, was uniquely special, sharing favorite spots with first-timers. With another trip already planned, the allure of the West Coast and its incredible “los angeles travel places” remains strong.