3 days in Los Angeles itinerary
A relaxed 3-day Los Angeles itinerary mixing local neighborhoods, outdoor views, museums, art, and well-regarded restaurants. Walks, short transfers by car/rideshare, and paced museum time so you can enjoy LA like a local.
Highlights
- Hike to Griffith Observatory for city views
- Browse The Getty Center's gardens and galleries
- Neighborhood strolls: Los Feliz, Silver Lake, Arts District, Melrose
- Arts District dining and galleries (Bestia, Guerilla Tacos, Hauser & Wirth)
- Museum day: The Broad, LACMA, and La Brea Tar Pits
Itinerary
Day 1
Griffith Park views, Los Feliz lunch, afternoon at The Getty, evening in Venice (Abbot Kinney).
Breakfast at The Trails Cafe (Griffith Park)
Casual coffee and pastries to start the day before a hike.
Tips from local experts:
- Arrive early to get a table — outdoor seating only.
- Cash or card accepted; grab a pastry to go if you're short on time.
- If parking at the Fern Dell lot, allow a few extra minutes to walk to the cafe.
Hike Mt. Hollywood Trail to Griffith Observatory (views)
Moderate 2-hour out-and-back hike with panoramic views of the city and Hollywood sign; finish at Griffith Observatory vantage points.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear sun protection and sturdy shoes; bring water.
- Park early — lots fill up on weekends; consider rideshare to the trailhead.
- The Observatory grounds are free; the planetarium shows have a separate fee and timed entry.
Transfer to Los Feliz (drive/rideshare)
Short drive down into Los Feliz for lunch and a neighborhood stroll.
Tips from local experts:
- Allow extra time for traffic if traveling midday.
- If using rideshare, request a drop-off near Vermont Ave or Hillhurst Ave for easy access to restaurants.
- Street parking in Los Feliz is metered in many spots — check signs.
Lunch at Little Dom's (Los Feliz)
Comfortable Italian-American neighborhood restaurant for a relaxed long lunch.
Tips from local experts:
- Popular with locals — consider arriving early or making a reservation.
- Try their pasta or seasonal menu items.
- Street parking and a small lot nearby; valet sometimes available on busy nights.
Transfer to The Getty Center (drive + tram)
Drive to The Getty Center; hop the tram up to the museum grounds.
Tips from local experts:
- Museum parking is paid; tram ride is included with parking.
- Traffic to the Getty can be heavy — allow extra travel time from central LA.
- Bring a hat — the gardens have sunny spots and limited shade.
Explore The Getty Center (collections & gardens)
Allow time for the European paintings, photography, architecture, and the Central Garden.
Tips from local experts:
- Free admission (parking fee applies). Reserve timed tickets for special exhibitions if needed.
- The central garden is a highlight for photos and a pleasant walk.
- Café on-site is good for a light snack or coffee if you need a break.
Drive to Venice / Abbot Kinney (transfer)
Afternoon drive to Venice for a late stroll along Abbot Kinney and the canals.
Tips from local experts:
- Street parking in Venice can be limited; consider parking in a lot and walking Abbot Kinney.
- Abbot Kinney is best enjoyed on foot — lots of independent shops and galleries.
- Allow time to find parking near Abbot Kinney or the Venice Canals.
Stroll Abbot Kinney & Venice Canals
Window shop, people-watch, and walk the quieter Venice Canals for a contrast to the beach.
Tips from local experts:
- Explore side streets for independent boutiques and galleries.
- Venice Canals are residential — be respectful and keep noise low.
- If you want a quick coffee, there are several local cafes along Abbot Kinney.
Dinner at Gjelina (Abbot Kinney, Venice)
One of Venice's most-loved restaurants — seasonal vegetable-forward menu and good pizzas.
Tips from local experts:
- Reservations recommended (they hold some walk-in tables, but wait times can be long).
- Share a few small plates to sample the menu.
- Street parking is tight; consider arriving slightly early to find a spot.
Day 2
Silver Lake morning, Arts District midday for tacos and galleries, evening at Bestia in the Arts District.
Breakfast at Sqirl (Silver Lake)
Popular local spot for inventive breakfast, jams, and great coffee.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect a line — arrive when they open to avoid waits.
- Try the ricotta toast or one of the seasonal bowls.
- Limited indoor seating; the line moves fairly quickly on weekdays.
Silver Lake Reservoir loop & neighborhood walk
A peaceful loop for locals with good views of the water and surrounding homes.
Tips from local experts:
- The loop is about a mile — comfortable walking shoes recommended.
- Stroll nearby Sunset Junction afterwards for shops and murals.
- If you want coffee after the walk, there are several small roasters nearby.
Short coffee/rest break in Silver Lake
Grab a quick coffee or sit and plan the midday transfer to the Arts District.
Tips from local experts:
- Use this time to hydrate and check traffic to the Arts District.
- If lines are long at local cafes, consider a bottled drink from a corner market.
- Neighborhood: good chance to people-watch and soak in the local vibe.
Transfer to Arts District (drive/rideshare)
Short drive across to the Arts District for lunch and murals.
Tips from local experts:
- Arts District parking can be limited; rideshare may be faster depending on time of day.
- Plan to walk the neighborhood — many highlights are on foot.
- Use a map of murals to hit favorite spots quickly if time is limited.
Lunch at Guerilla Tacos (Arts District)
Creative tacos and changing daily menus from a celebrated local chef.
Tips from local experts:
- Counter-order style — arrive early for popular items.
- Menus change frequently; ask staff for recommendations.
- Seating is limited — many people eat outside or walk to nearby parks.
Explore Arts District murals & street art
Walk the neighborhood to see large-scale murals, creative storefronts, and independent galleries.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera — lots of great photo ops.
- Some murals are on private property; enjoy them respectfully from public sidewalks.
- Check for gallery hours if you want to pop inside exhibitions.
Visit Hauser & Wirth (contemporary art)
Large contemporary art gallery with rotating exhibitions and a pleasant courtyard.
Tips from local experts:
- Admission is typically free for the gallery spaces; special exhibitions may have fees.
- The courtyard café is a nice spot for a mid-afternoon break.
- Check current exhibition listings ahead of time for must-sees.
Late-afternoon break at Angel City Brewery
Relax with a local beer at Angel City Brewery's taproom — a popular Arts District gathering spot.
Tips from local experts:
- Try a flight to sample several brews.
- Outdoor seating is available; this is a relaxed local hangout.
- Food trucks are often on-site if you want a snack with your beer.
Dinner at Bestia (Arts District)
Renowned Italian restaurant featuring house-made pastas and a lively atmosphere; reservation recommended.
Tips from local experts:
- Reservations strongly recommended — book well in advance if possible.
- Share a few dishes; the pasta and small plates are highlights.
- Arrive on time for your reservation; the dining room fills quickly.
Evening stroll or nightcap in the Arts District
After dinner, enjoy a relaxed walk or stop at a neighborhood bar for a nightcap.
Tips from local experts:
- The Arts District is lively after dark with bars and late galleries; stay aware of your surroundings.
- If you prefer quieter options, head to a nearby café or dessert spot.
- Rideshare is plentiful in this neighborhood if you're heading back to your hotel.
Day 3
Downtown museum morning, then Mid-City/Melrose museums and shops, finishing with dinner in West Hollywood.
Breakfast at Grand Central Market
Food hall featuring many local vendors — great for a fast but delicious start.
Tips from local experts:
- Try a couple of different stalls (e.g., egg sandwich and coffee) to sample more flavors.
- Arrive early for shorter lines, especially on weekends.
- Seating is communal and can be busy during peak hours.
Visit The Broad (contemporary art)
Major contemporary art museum next to Walt Disney Concert Hall. Reserve tickets if possible.
Tips from local experts:
- Timed entry tickets are free but can sell out — reserve in advance if there's a must-see exhibition.
- The Infinity Mirror rooms (if on view) often require a separate reservation.
- Allow time to also walk to the Walt Disney Concert Hall and Bradbury Building nearby.
Walk by Walt Disney Concert Hall & Bradbury Building
Admire the architecture of the Frank Gehry building and the historic Bradbury Building lobby.
Tips from local experts:
- Bradbury Building lobby is open to the public during business hours — photography is allowed inside the atrium.
- The concert hall exterior is great for photos; guided tours of the hall may be available.
- This is an easy walk from The Broad — no transfer needed.
Lunch at Bottega Louie (DTLA)
Vibrant downtown restaurant and patisserie — roomy and convenient for midday dining.
Tips from local experts:
- Dish suggestions: pizza, pasta, or pastries from the bakery counter.
- If it's busy, the bakery counter has grab-and-go options.
- Metered street parking and several nearby lots; allow time to find a spot.
Transfer to LACMA (drive/rideshare)
Head west to Museum Row (Mid-City) to visit LACMA and the adjacent La Brea Tar Pits.
Tips from local experts:
- Expect 20–40 minutes travel depending on traffic — plan accordingly.
- Parking is available at LACMA (paid).
- If you prefer transit, several bus routes connect downtown to the Mid-Wilshire area.
Explore LACMA collections (Urban Light & galleries)
See the iconic Urban Light installation and pick one or two galleries/exhibitions to explore.
Tips from local experts:
- Urban Light is outside — a popular photo spot, best visited in the afternoon light.
- Plan which exhibitions you want in advance to make the most of your time.
- LACMA has a café if you need a short rest between galleries.
Visit La Brea Tar Pits and Museum (short visit)
See tar pits and ice-age fossils at the outdoor site and museum displays.
Tips from local experts:
- The outdoor site is free to walk; the museum has an admission fee for indoor exhibits.
- Allow 30–45 minutes for a focused visit to the pits and a quick museum walkthrough.
- Combine this with LACMA for a full Museum Row afternoon.
Coffee / break on Museum Row
Recharge with a coffee or snack near LACMA before heading to Melrose/WeHo for the evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Good moment to review the rest of your day and shop for any museum store souvenirs.
- If you're tired of walking, this is a good time to call a rideshare.
- Several cafés and bakeries are within a few blocks of LACMA.
Transfer to Melrose Avenue / West Hollywood (drive/rideshare)
Short drive to Melrose for shopping, street art, and to reach West Hollywood for dinner.
Tips from local experts:
- Melrose has great boutique shopping and street art — plan a short walking loop.
- Parking is metered in parts of Melrose; rideshare can be an efficient option.
- If you prefer, skip Melrose and head straight to West Hollywood for an earlier dinner.
Stroll Melrose shops & street art
Browse independent boutiques, vintage shops, and notable street art installations.
Tips from local experts:
- Wear comfortable shoes; Melrose is best explored on foot in short segments.
- If there's a specific shop you want, check opening hours ahead of time.
- The area has many photo-friendly murals — great for a casual wander.
Dinner at Gracias Madre (West Hollywood)
Popular plant-based Mexican restaurant in West Hollywood — flavorful and vibrant atmosphere.
Tips from local experts:
- Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.
- Menu is plant-based; great for vegetarians and adventurous diners alike.
- Street parking or a nearby lot; rideshare is convenient for West Hollywood.
