Itinerary - Three day stopover in LA
Itinerary - Three day stopover in LA
Jo Needham
Available for hire
Have you got a few days in LA at the start or end of your US trip?
This brief itinerary has some ideas on what you can do to explore LA.
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Day 1 - Hollywood Boulevard, Venice Beach & Santa Monica
Start your day on Hollywood Boulevard
Hollywood Boulevard
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No trip to LA is complete without a walk on Hollywood Boulevard. Find the stars of your favourite entertainers.
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TCL Chinese Theatre
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Take a tour through this historic theatre that has hosted red carpet events for nearly 100 years.
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Dolby Theatre
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Check out the theatre where movie premieres are often screened. If there is a premiere on during your visit, you'll see the street blocked off and may be able to spot a celebrity.
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Take the bus to the beach for the afternoon
Big Bus Tours Los Angeles
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The Big Bus tour is a great way to explore more of the city and make your way to the beach. Be sure to sit up the top for the best views.
Pro tip: Take your own headphones for the commentary.
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Venice Beach
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Jump off the hop on hop off bus at Venice Beach and check out the shops and markets. This is a great place to people watch - there are so many people out and about enjoying the beach vibe. Stroll along the beach north up to Santa Monica. Have a swim somewhere along the journey.
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Santa Monica Pier
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Explore the Pier and Pacific Park. There are some fun rides, games to play and places to eat or enjoy a drink.
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Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
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Enjoy lunch on the Santa Monica Pier at this iconic chain restaurant.
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By now, you are probably ready to head back to your hotel and rest, but if you have a bit of time on the way home, consider these stops:
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The Original Farmers Market
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Check out the fresh produce and specialty grocers. If you have a few days in LA, grab some of your favourite snacks while you are here.
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Day 2 - Universal Studios, Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood
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If you enjoy theme parks, you'll love spending a day here. There is a great mix of thrill rides, family-friendly rides, shows and experiences.
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Universal CityWalk Hollywood
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After you visit the theme park, wander through Universal Walk to find a nice meal and some great souveniers.
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Day 3 - Hollywood Sign Hike & Warner Brothers Studio Tour
Hollywood Sign
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Take a hike through the hills to get as close as you can to the Hollywood sign. You'll get some amazing views over LA.
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Bikes And Hikes LA Tours - Los Angeles Tours
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If you would like to join a group hike to the sign, I highly recommend this company. They have knowledgeable guides who will tell you all about the history of the area as you make your way to the sign.
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Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood
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Explore sets and props from your favourite movies and tv shows.
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Find a place to stay
Near Hollywood Boulevard
These hotels are sorted from most to least expensive to help you find the right spot.
Close to Hollywood Boulevard
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Hollywood Walk of Fame, an IHG Hotel
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A great spot to stay if you want to be close to Hollywood Boulevard.
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Magic Castle Hotel
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It looks a bit old, but this is a great spot to stay! The free breakfast, snacks and ice cream are a great bonus. The location is excellent, being only a block from Hollywood Boulevard.
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The Adler A Hollywood Hotel
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This is a great option if you are on a tighter budget and still want to stay near Hollywood Boulevard.
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Close to Universal Studios
Sheraton Universal Hotel
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This is a great option if Universal Studios is your top priority in LA. It's only a short Uber ride to Hollywood Boulevard and Warner Brothers Studio, so everything is still quite accessible if you choose this hotel.
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Close to Santa Monica
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Bayside Hotel
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This hotel is a slightly cheaper option if you are watching your budget and still only a 15 minute walk to the Santa Monica Pier.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jo Needham
Available for hire
Hi! Welcome to my Thatch guides!
I am a solo traveller based on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia. I have been traveling solo for about 25 years (not bad for someone in their early 40s). I love exploring new places and spending on experiences, not things.
Before I found Thatch, I would create Google Maps for each location I was visiting. While this served me well, it has nothing on Thatch. I love being able to set up itineraries for myself and others to simplify the travel experience.
What will you find in my Thatch guides?
* Easy-to-follow itineraries that will help you explore new places
* Recommendations for activities and experiences
* Some restaurant recommendations
* Accommodation options at varying budget levels
* Links to my travel Instagram for reels and more information
Services I offer:
* Guides and itineraries
* Personalised itineraries
* Travel consultation
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