2 days in Los Angeles itinerary
Two relaxed days exploring Los Angeles like a local: morning viewpoints and hikes, museum time, neighborhood strolls in Silver Lake and Venice, plus carefully chosen meals and breaks so the pace stays easy.
Highlights
- Griffith Observatory and Griffith Park
- Silver Lake Reservoir & local cafés
- LACMA / Miracle Mile
- The Getty Center
- Venice Canals & Abbot Kinney
- Tongva Park & Santa Monica beachfront
Itinerary
Day 1
East/central LA loop: morning view + Silver Lake, afternoon museums, sunset neighborhood stroll, dinner in Mid-Wilshire.
Griffith Observatory — skyline viewpoint & short park hike
Enjoy sweeping views of the city and a short walk around the Observatory terraces. Good early start to beat heavier crowds.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early for parking and the clearest views.
- Bring water and a light jacket — it can be windy up top.
- Check Observatory open hours if you plan to go inside.
Drive to brunch in Silver Lake
Transfer by car to Silver Lake for one of LA’s favorite brunch spots.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow extra time if traveling on weekend mornings.
- Parking can be limited around popular cafes.
- Use a rideshare if you prefer not to hunt for parking.
Brunch at Sqirl
Casual, creative breakfast/brunch focusing on seasonal ingredients — iconic toast and rice bowls.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a short line; the menu is worth the wait.
- Try one of the seasonal jam or rice dishes.
- Cashless — card only.
Walk Silver Lake Reservoir & neighborhood browsing
A relaxed loop around the reservoir, then browse independent shops and murals nearby.
Tips from local experts:
- The reservoir walk is flat and stroller-friendly.
- Peek into nearby vinyl shops and boutiques on Sunset Blvd.
- Good spot for local coffee shops and people-watching.
Quick coffee / rest
Short pause to recharge before heading to the museums.
Tips from local experts:
- Grab a to-go coffee if you want to keep exploring.
- Use bathrooms here rather than relying on museum facilities.
- Keep it short to maintain the day's momentum.
Drive to Miracle Mile (LACMA / La Brea area)
Transfer across town toward the museums on Wilshire Boulevard.
Tips from local experts:
- Traffic can add time; this plan allows a half hour but expect variability.
- If using rideshare, request drop-off near the LACMA entrance.
- If you prefer, you can swap LACMA for a longer Griffith Park hike earlier.
LACMA & La Brea Tar Pits area
Explore selected exhibits at LACMA and the nearby La Brea Tar Pits outdoor area as time allows.
Tips from local experts:
- Pick one or two galleries — the collection is large and can be tiring.
- The tar pits and museum gardens are good for quick outdoor photos.
- Check for timed-entry exhibits or special installations.
Short rest near LACMA
Sit and rest after the museum visit — restroom and water break.
Tips from local experts:
- There are benches and shady spots in the outdoor sculpture gardens.
- Refill water bottles before continuing the day.
- Use this time to decide if you'd like to extend museum time.
Transfer to Echo Park
Short drive to Echo Park for a mellow late-afternoon stroll.
Tips from local experts:
- Traffic can be moderate; rideshare or a quick drive are both common.
- Street parking is available but watch signs.
- If you'd rather rest at your hotel, you can skip the Echo Park stop.
Stroll Echo Park Lake & nearby shops
Walk the lake, see the lotus boats (seasonal), and check out nearby indie stores and murals.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a camera for colorful murals and skyline views from the lake.
- Consider renting a pedal boat if available and you want a short activity on the water.
- This area is a good example of local neighborhood life.
Drive to dinner (Mid-Wilshire / République)
Transfer to République for an elevated dinner experience in a beautiful converted space.
Tips from local experts:
- Make a reservation in advance where possible.
- Allow time for traffic during early evening.
- Parking is available in nearby lots; valet may be offered.
Dinner at République
Sit-down dinner at one of LA’s celebrated restaurants — polished but relaxed, great bread and shared plates.
Tips from local experts:
- Try one of the chef’s recommended shared dishes.
- If you prefer a lighter meal, République has excellent bakery options earlier in the day.
- Reservations recommended.
Short after-dinner rest
Relax briefly after dinner before heading back to your accommodation or continuing the evening independently.
Tips from local experts:
- If you’re staying nearby, now is a good time to head back and recharge.
- If you want nightlife, ask staff for local bars or a quieter lounge recommendation.
- Keep this break short to avoid disrupting the next day.
Day 2
Westside highlights: Getty in the morning, Venice & Abbot Kinney midday, finishing with Santa Monica sunset and a relaxed dinner.
The Getty Center — art, architecture, and gardens
Start at The Getty for museum collections, architecture, and panoramic views over the coast and city.
Tips from local experts:
- Reserve parking online or expect a short wait for tram service up to the museum.
- Wear comfortable shoes — the campus has hills and gardens to explore.
- Allocate at least 2–3 hours for highlights; pick a few galleries to focus on.
Drive to Venice (Abbot Kinney) for lunch
Transfer from the Getty down the coast to Venice for a lively local lunch street.
Tips from local experts:
- Traffic can be variable; this is typically a 25–35 minute drive off-peak.
- Parking along Abbot Kinney fills quickly on weekends.
- Consider rideshare if you prefer not to deal with parking.
Lunch at Gjusta
Casual, bakery-driven spot known for smoked fish, salads, and creative sandwiches — great for a midday refuel.
Tips from local experts:
- Gjusta is busy; counter ordering is efficient but expect a short wait.
- Try something to share and a pastry for dessert.
- Outdoor seating is plentiful on pleasant days.
Stroll Abbot Kinney & Venice Canals
Walk Abbot Kinney's boutiques and galleries, then head to the peaceful Venice Canals for a quieter, scenic stroll.
Tips from local experts:
- Abbot Kinney is excellent for independent shops and design finds.
- The Venice Canals are a calmer contrast to the busy boardwalk — be respectful of residents.
- This is an excellent photo walk; keep an eye on parking times.
Coffee / short rest on Abbot Kinney
Quick pause for coffee and a seat before heading to Santa Monica.
Tips from local experts:
- Choose a patio table to enjoy people-watching along Abbot Kinney.
- Refill water and reapply sunscreen if you’ll be outside near the beach.
- Keep this break short to catch sunset timing in Santa Monica.
Transfer to Santa Monica (Tongva Park area)
Short drive or rideshare to Santa Monica’s calmer green spaces near the pier.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a short transfer but allow extra time during rush hour.
- If you prefer walking, the ride is brief from the northern parts of Venice.
- Plan to arrive with enough daylight for the park and the pier.
Tongva Park & Santa Monica Main Street walk
Explore Tongva Park’s gardens, then stroll Main Street or the Promenade — a relaxed seaside neighborhood experience.
Tips from local experts:
- Tongva Park is a peaceful spot with terraced gardens and good views.
- Head toward Palisades Park for ocean-facing views and sunset vantage points.
- If you’d like a quick beach visit, the sand is close by.
Short sunset pause at Santa Monica Pier / overlook
Take in the sunset over the ocean from the pier area or adjacent Palisades Park benches.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive a bit early for a clear view on busy evenings.
- Cool ocean breezes make a light layer useful.
- If you prefer less bustle, Palisades Park has quieter spots.
Walk to dinner at Cassia (Santa Monica)
Short stroll to Cassia for a Southeast-Asian inspired coastal dinner in an intimate space.
Tips from local experts:
- Cassia is popular; reservations are recommended for evening service.
- If you have mobility needs, request a table that minimizes steps.
- Arrive a bit early if you want to enjoy the bar area.
Dinner at Cassia
Leisurely dinner with a menu that blends Southeast Asian flavors and coastal ingredients — great for a final LA meal.
Tips from local experts:
- Share plates to sample more flavors.
- Ask staff for recommendations based on what’s fresh that night.
- Reserve in advance for a smoother experience.
