Los Angeles. The land synonymous with celebrities, glitz and glamour, expensive zip codes like Beverly Hills and Malibu and of course an easy going pacific beach lifestyle. There’s not doubt you can find all of this in “the angels” (the Spanish translation of Los Angeles) but there is more to sunshine city that people looking for their big acting break, partying and shopping. I’ve been to Los Angles five times now so I’m come up with a budget friendly list of five things to do whilst in the city of angels.

Griffith Observatory

If an unbeatable view of the city is what you’re after, then this MUST be on your itinerary. Located within the largest state park in California, the observatory offers phenomenal views of Los Angeles, with sweeping views of downtown, the Hollywood sign (without the hike) and Pacific Ocean. One of my favorite times of day to visit is sunset, when the sky is alive with fiery mesmerizing views, covering t

While admission to the park grounds, telescope and observatory building are free; entrance to the planetarium comes with a small fee. Parking is also no longer free, which was a surprise to me as my last visit two years ago, and every visit before then, had been free. However, it’s worth the $10 or so fee.

Tip: If you see a parking space near the bottom of the serpentine hill, take it! Chances are, all the ones near the observatory are taken, especially if you are arriving for sunset. A little walking never hurt!

Runyon Canyon

Arguably one of the most well known natural landmarks in L.A, Runyon Canyon is a 160-acre park that was privately owned just until 1984. The canyon gets it’s current name from Carmen Runyon, a successful businessman who bought the land in 1919.

Today, it’s a popular hiking destination for locals and tourists alike and for me, someone that loves hiking and staying active on trips, Runyon is a must for me and I make the climb every time I’m in the City of Angels. There are three slopes, ranging from easy (the main trail) to difficult- the west trail.

Your hike may include a celebrity sighting or two, but what’ guaranteed are views of the Hollywood Sign, friendly dogs and people along the trail, and a sprawling view of Los Angeles.

The Broad Museum

Named after philanthropists Eli and Edythe Broad, this contemporary art museum recently opened in 2015 and lures thousands of visitors every year.

I recommend it because they’ve got a great selection of galleries in its permanent collection, ranging from Jean-Michael Basquiat, Jeff Koons, Andy Warhol and Barbara Kruger. There’s also featured artwork like Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirrored Rooms, live performances and screenings.

Balloon dog by Jeff Koons, one of my favorite pop art artists.

I highly suggest getting tickets in advance on their website, which decreases your wait time in line, which can sometimes be an hour, if not more.

Venice Beach

What’s a trip with California without a beach day? Filled with a bustling promenade of street performers, tattoo artists, odd pets, like lizards and snakes being showcased by their owners,

Venice Beach is more than just your average beach, but hey, if catching some Pacific waves and soaking up the sun is all you care for then, Venice has you covered.

The famous Muscle Beach is not to be missed where you can test your athletic prowess amongst other beach goers.

Oh, don’t forget to walk down to the famed ‘Fishing Pier’. There are plenty of food options along the boardwalk, as well as souvenir shops. Plan on spending a day here, especially if it’s your first time.

Fun Fact: Venice was its own independent city until it merged with Los Angeles in 1926.

Joshua Tree National Park

Located about 3 hours east of Los Angeles is Joshua Tree National Park. This beautiful park includes two deserts, each with varying ecosystems and provides plenty of activities from rock climbing, hiking and camping. You are also allowed to drive through most of the park, so if none of the aforementioned activities have your name on it, I’m sure a drive through a desert park that’s slightly larger than the state of Rhode Island (yes, you read that right) will suffice.

The park gets its name from the twisted and spiked trees that grow in the park and are only found in Mojave Desert. This is definitely a worthwhile daytrip outside of Los Angeles and it’s a rather scenic drive, so it’s a win-win.

I’ve been traveling to Los Angeles since 2015 and it truly never gets old. I hope the above things to do serve as inspiration and guidance for your next or first trip to the City of Angels. As always, if you are looking for a more personalized itinerary to suit your travel style, send me an email.

Live. Love. Travel.