It’s great when I have the time to spend a week or more in one destination. I can take my time exploring and truly get a feel for the place. But sometimes my schedule only affords me a day or two to spend traveling. I’ve found that quick trips can be even better than long stays because they force you to focus and allow you to experience a city’s main attractions all at once!

I recently had a few days off and rather than doing laundry or running errands like I needed to, I decided it would be MUCH more fun to take a day trip to Los Angeles. In all the traveling I have done, California is one of the states I am least familiar with so I figured it was about time to check it off my list. Below are my suggestions on how to spend one day in L.A.!

FLY IN EARLY

I am NOT a morning person, but given that the last flight out of L.A. was at 10:30pm I only had a 12 hour window to squeeze in all I wanted to do.  That meant I had to take the first flight of the morning, which left at 7am…eeks!  If you’re planning a day trip, resist the urge to hit snooze and get on the road as early as possible!

 

RENT A CAR

In order to maximize my time, I needed an efficient mode of transportation so I rented a car for about $40 and it was money well spent! Unlike some other major metropolitan cities, Los Angeles is not known for its public transit. I’ve heard several frightening tales about L.A.’s buses so avoid if possible!

HIKE IN GRIFFITH PARK

My first stop was Griffith Park to catch a glimpse of the famous Hollywood Sign. There are several options for viewing it including hiking trails, the observatory or just driving. I parked near the observation deck then ‘hiked’ towards a peak that provided great views of the sign. It is possible to get closer, but I wasn’t really prepared for a full on trek in my flip flops!

TAKE A STROLL DOWN HOLLYWOOD BOULEVARD

My next stop  was Hollywood Boulevard.  Similar to New York’s Times Square, locals avoid this area at all costs, but I was willing to risk exposing myself as a tourist in order to experience the walk of fame first hand. I encourage you to check it out because you just never know what you’ll find! I stumbled upon a parade that shut down much of the street. There was music, elaborate costumes and fabulous dancers. It was a pleasant surprise that made my first trip to the boulevard even more memorable!

EXPLORE BEVERLY HILLS

Confession: I am an avid Real Housewives viewer, and Beverly Hills is one of my favorite casts. As corny as it sounds, I was thrilled to step into Kyle Richard’s boutique, Kyle by Alene Too.  It’s an adorable store with many unique finds.  Afterwards, I stopped by Lisa Vanderpump’s restaurant, Vila Blanca for afternoon appetizers and a glass of rosé.

VISIT VENICE BEACH

After a fun filled day in the city, I was ready for the beach! I walked along the Venice Beach boardwalk where the vibe was quite different from the posh streets of Beverly Hills.  There were palm trees “decorated” with graffiti, a skate park in the middle of the boardwalk and endless shops and food vendors along the way. I helped myself to some ice cream before heading back to LAX.  It was the perfect ending to a whirlwind of a day!

How would you spend one day in L.A.? What are your tips for planning a day trip? Share your comments below!

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