4 days in Los Angeles itinerary
A balanced 4-day Los Angeles plan mixing beaches, neighborhoods, hikes, museums, galleries and local dining with realistic pacing and short transfers.
Highlights
- Santa Monica & Venice Beach
- Downtown LA galleries, The Broad & Grand Central Market
- Griffith Park hike & Observatory
- LACMA, La Brea Tar Pits and Melrose shopping
Itinerary
Day 1
Santa Monica morning, relaxed afternoon in Venice — beach, promenade, canals and a seaside dinner.
Breakfast at Huckleberry Bakery & Cafe
Start with seasonal pastries and a well-made coffee to fuel the morning.
Local tips:
- Arrive early to avoid the weekend line.
- Try a savory tart or a house-made granola.
- Counter service; seating is first-come.
Stroll Palisades Park along the bluffs
Short walk with ocean views and a gentle introduction to the coast.
Local tips:
- Good spot for sunrise or scenic photos.
- There are benches and grassy areas for a quick rest.
- Light jacket often useful by the water.
Explore Santa Monica Pier & Beach
Walk the pier, check out the small amusement area, and enjoy time on the sand.
Local tips:
- Bring sunscreen and water if you plan to be on the sand.
- The pier can be busy midday — enjoy people-watching and vendors.
- Public restrooms and snack options nearby.
Lunch at Blue Plate Taco (Santa Monica)
Casual, coastal Mexican with nice ocean-adjacent seating.
Local tips:
- Ask for outside seating when weather is nice.
- Their tacos and margaritas are popular — plan accordingly.
- Weekend waits are common; arrive slightly before peak lunch hours if possible.
Shop & stroll Third Street Promenade
Pedestrian shopping street with local shops, street performers and cafés.
Local tips:
- Great for souvenir browsing and window shopping.
- Street performers take place most afternoons.
- If you want quieter cafes, head a block off the promenade.
Transfer to Venice (short drive or rideshare)
Scenic coastal drive (or rideshare) south along Ocean Ave to Venice.
Local tips:
- Allow time for traffic on busy afternoons.
- Rideshare costs are modest for this short trip; street parking in Venice can be limited.
- Consider the bike path along the beach for a scenic ride.
Walk the Venice Canals & Abbot Kinney Boulevard
Historic canals stroll, then window-shopping and boutique browsing along Abbot Kinney.
Local tips:
- The canals are peaceful; Abbot Kinney offers great independent shops and galleries.
- Wear comfortable shoes — Abbot Kinney is best enjoyed on foot.
- Abbot Kinney has many small cafés if you want a quick snack.
Dinner at Gjelina (Venice)
Popular neighborhood restaurant with seasonally driven dishes — great for shared plates.
Local tips:
- Reservations are recommended, or expect a wait.
- Try sharing a few small plates to taste more of the menu.
- Street parking is limited; consider a short rideshare.
Day 2
Downtown LA cultural day: Broad, Walt Disney Concert Hall, Grand Central Market, then Arts District galleries and a standout dinner.
Coffee & quick bite at Blue Bottle Coffee (Grand Central Market)
Grab a coffee and a pastry before exploring downtown museums.
Local tips:
- Blue Bottle in the market is a quick grab-and-go option.
- Use the market seating area if you need a place to sit.
- Check The Broad's same-day availability online in the morning if you didn't reserve tickets.
Visit The Broad contemporary art museum
Explore contemporary art highlights; free general admission often available but timed tickets recommended.
Local tips:
- Reserve timed tickets in advance when possible to skip lines.
- Large backpacks are not allowed — use a small bag or check coatrooms when available.
- Allow time for the Infinity Mirror rooms if available (separate line/ticket).
Photo stop at Walt Disney Concert Hall (architecture)
Iconic Gehry-designed exterior; quick photos and a short walk around the plaza.
Local tips:
- Exterior photos are best in morning or late afternoon light.
- Check for guided tours if you want to explore the interior.
- Plaza seating is handy for a short rest.
Explore The Last Bookstore
Independent landmark with creative book displays and photo-worthy nooks.
Local tips:
- Great place to pick up art-books, vinyl, and unique gifts.
- The upstairs gallery and used-book stacks are worth browsing.
- Bring cash or card — both accepted.
Lunch at Grand Central Market
Choice of many vendors — tacos, egg sandwiches, ramen and more; ideal for groups with varying tastes.
Local tips:
- Try Mariscos Jalisco for tacos or Eggslut for sandwiches depending on preference.
- Bring cash for some vendors; most accept card now.
- Peak lunch can be busy; wander to less crowded vendors for shorter lines.
Transfer to the Arts District
Short drive or rideshare to LA's creative neighborhood for galleries, murals and coffee.
Local tips:
- Arts District is best explored on foot once you arrive.
- Watch for bike lanes and light industrial traffic in the area.
- Street parking can be limited; rideshare is often easiest.
Walk the Arts District murals, galleries & shops
See street art, small galleries, craft breweries and independent shops.
Local tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes — there is a lot of ground to cover.
- Look for curated shops and local galleries on 3rd Street and around E 7th Street.
- Bring a camera for the murals but be respectful of private property.
Coffee break at Stumptown Coffee Roasters (Arts District)
Quick caffeine break to recharge mid-afternoon.
Local tips:
- Try a single-origin pour-over for a local specialty.
- If you need power or seating, arrive earlier — spots fill in the afternoon.
- Refill water bottles at public fountains nearby before continuing.
Dinner at Bavel (Arts District)
Highly regarded Middle Eastern restaurant from the team behind Bestia — great for a memorable evening.
Local tips:
- Reservations recommended well in advance.
- Order several shareable plates to experience the menu variety.
- Vegetarian options are plentiful; ask the staff for recommendations.
Day 3
Griffith Park hike and Observatory, Los Feliz neighborhood, then an evening in Hollywood.
Breakfast at Little Dom's (Los Feliz)
Neighborhood favorite with a solid brunch menu — perfect before a hike.
Local tips:
- Popular spot for locals; reservations help on weekends.
- Try a savory brunch plate to fuel the hike.
- Outdoor seating available on pleasant days.
Transfer to Griffith Observatory / trailhead
Short drive into Griffith Park; parking can be limited — rideshare or arrive early.
Local tips:
- If parking is full at the observatory, consider parking in Los Feliz and hiking up.
- Bring water and sun protection for the hike.
- Check shuttle options on busy weekend mornings.
Hike Mt. Hollywood / Brush Canyon trail to view the Hollywood Sign
Moderate hike with stellar city and sign viewpoints; takes you into open parkland.
Local tips:
- Trail can be steep in parts; wear hiking shoes.
- Start early to avoid midday heat and crowds.
- Carry water and a small snack; limited shade on parts of the trail.
Visit Griffith Observatory (exhibits & views)
Explore exhibits, telescopes (evening) and sweeping views of LA and the Hollywood Sign.
Local tips:
- Entry to grounds is free; some shows/reach may require tickets.
- If you want to use the big telescope, check the public viewing schedule.
- The observatory terrace is excellent for panoramic photos of LA.
Lunch at The Trails Cafe (near Griffith Park)
Casual outdoor counter-service spot ideal for sandwiches and baked goods after a hike.
Local tips:
- Outdoor picnic benches — bring a light jacket for shade or breeze.
- Try a pastry if you want a quick sweet treat.
- Cash or card accepted; lines can form on weekends.
Stroll Los Feliz neighborhood (shops & cafés)
Browse indie shops, vintage stores and relaxed cafés on Vermont and Hillhurst.
Local tips:
- Los Feliz has a mellow local vibe — good for a slower afternoon.
- Stop into independent bookstores or small galleries if something catches your eye.
- If you need a sit-down coffee, there are several quality cafés along Hillhurst.
Transfer to Hollywood Walk of Fame area
Short drive to Hollywood for an evening walk and classic theaters.
Local tips:
- Street parking is limited; rideshare often faster in Hollywood.
- Keep valuables secure in crowded tourist areas.
- Consider a quick snack before the evening if you have late dining plans.
Stroll Hollywood Walk of Fame & TCL Chinese Theatre exterior
See the famous stars, theatre façades and lively tourist-lined boulevard.
Local tips:
- This is a busy tourist area — plan for crowds and street vendors.
- TCL Chinese Theatre courtyard has celebrity handprints; interior tours are optional.
- Good time for evening photos as lights come on.
Dinner at Musso & Frank Grill (Hollywood)
Classic Hollywood steakhouse with old-school charm and a historic atmosphere.
Local tips:
- Great spot for a classic dinner; reservations recommended for evenings.
- Expect a traditional menu and nostalgic decor.
- Consider trying one of their iconic cocktails.
Day 4
Museums and Miracle Mile day: LACMA, La Brea Tar Pits, shopping on Melrose, and a special final dinner.
Breakfast at Sqirl (Silver Lake)
Popular spot for creative toasts and seasonal dishes — a local favorite.
Local tips:
- Sqirl gets busy; arrive early or expect a short wait for weekend brunch.
- Try a jam or a rice bowl — portions are generous.
- Take a moment to enjoy their coffee selections.
Transfer to LACMA (Los Angeles County Museum of Art)
Short drive to the Miracle Mile museum complex.
Local tips:
- Allow time for street or lot parking; underground parking is available at LACMA.
- Check current exhibits online to prioritize what you want to see.
- Wear comfortable shoes — the campus is spread out.
Visit LACMA
Explore the museum's wide-ranging collections and outdoor installations.
Local tips:
- Plan which collections you care most about to manage time.
- The Urban Light installation is a popular photo stop — expect a line.
- Museum cafés provide a place for a short sit-down if needed.
Explore La Brea Tar Pits & Museum
Unique Ice Age fossil site and museum located next to LACMA.
Local tips:
- The outdoor tar pits are interesting for a short walk; indoor exhibits explain the paleontology.
- Allow at least an hour to see key displays.
- Bring a light jacket for wind off the adjacent park.
Lunch at Ray's and Stark Bar (LACMA)
Museum-adjacent lunch with a solid seasonal menu and indoor/outdoor seating.
Local tips:
- Great spot for a relaxed lunch without leaving the museum area.
- If the museum is crowded, this is a convenient and high-quality option.
- Ask for patio seating if weather is nice.
Shop and explore Melrose Avenue (street art & boutiques)
Walk Melrose for curated boutiques, vintage shops and colorful murals.
Local tips:
- Melrose has a mix of high-end and vintage shopping — set aside some time for browsing.
- Keep an eye out for notable murals and local designers.
- If you want a quick break, numerous cafés and gelato shops line the avenue.
Coffee break at Intelligentsia Coffee (Melrose)
Recharge at a reputable local roaster before your final evening.
Local tips:
- Try a seasonal espresso or a filter brew.
- Use this time to review travel logistics for departure or next steps.
- If you're shopping, leave larger purchases with the store and pick up later if needed.
Transfer to République for final dinner
Short transfer to one of LA's celebrated dining rooms for a memorable final meal.
Local tips:
- République is popular — reservations are strongly recommended.
- If you prefer a lighter meal, the bakery/café downstairs has excellent options earlier in the day.
- Allow time for traffic depending on your location and dinner time.
Dinner at République
Finish your trip with an elevated French-influenced menu in a beautiful historic setting.
Local tips:
- Book a table in advance; evening service is lively.
- Share a few plates to sample the bakery items and main courses.
- Ask the server for wine or cocktail pairings to complement the menu.