How to Spend 48 Hours in Los Angeles
Los Angeles delivers on all the glitz and glamour we've come to expect from TV and films.
It's long been a bucket list destination, and there are countless tourist attractions, meaning that it can be tough to cram it all in. For those who have spent a summer at camp, it often forms a crucial part of any after camp plans. There’s so much to do, so with the right plan, you can make sure you tick off what you'd love to see.
Below, you'll find a list of the most emblematic attractions in the city that no tourist should miss, even if you're just about for a couple of days.
So, without further ado, here's our guide to spending 48 Hours in Los Angeles.
Day 1
Early morning - Get exercising
LA really lives by the phrase 'early bird catches the worm'.
It's a city that rises and shines early, making the most of every hour available. If you're going to live it like an Angeleno, you'll dedicate the first hour of the day to self-care. There are two very trendy options: spinning at Cycle House (in LA, spinning is as popular as anything); and Yoga Earth, one of the best centres in the city, which also includes a healthy breakfast.
For those wanting to save some cash, take yourself for a hike through Runyon Canyon Park. It’s the perfect blend of being slightly challenging, but not over the top, whilst providing great views a short distance from the city.
Start your day off right.
Late morning - Museum hopping
Los Angeles County Museum of Art is one of the most visited museums in the country.
The museum's permanent collection includes well-chosen works by Kandinsky, Picasso, Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, a sculpture garden by Rodin, and a piece, "Urban Light" by Chris Burden, which tells the story of the city through lamp-posts.
There's a huge range of museums and galleries across LA aside from LACMA. They include The Getty, The Broad, Natural History Museum, California Science Centre, Griffith Observatory and more, so you can swap in and swap out depending on what you love the most.
Within walking distance of LACMA is The Grove, an example of the quintessential American mega mall. It is worth a visit because of its Farmers Market and its wide offer of other establishments. You can also stroll along Melrose Street and browse the vintage t-shirt shops that line it.
For those who are interested in art and being creative, these stops have to form part of your 48 hours in Los Angeles.
Early afternoon - Art District
To continue your cultural immersion, it’s time to get your creative juices flowing by heading to the Art District.
To get to this fashionable neighbourhood in the city, jump on the subway and take the train to Downtown. The Los Angeles River can also be seen from the 6th Bridge, and it's a nice spot to take a snap. It provides the perfect opportunity to explore Downtown's elegance and undoubted charm.
From blooming cherry blossom trees to the multiple artistic murals dotted throughout, the art district engages the senses in every way possible.
Late afternoon - Lunch and art
Mealtime - Dare to try something new at the communal tables of the Wurstkuche bar. Handcrafted beer can be poured over some pretty crazy appetizers, including viper and crocodile sausages. You can also order a dessert at The Pie Hole if you prefer something more traditional.
As a next step, immerse yourself in a mix of pop and conceptual arts. The first stop is at Sci-Art School of Art and Architecture and is, without a doubt, an unforgettable one. Explore the student murals and the galleries where the top artists in the world exhibit their work.
LA has transformed into the centrifugal force of modern art and is a source of creative energy where voices from around the globe come together. Fans of comic books should also stop at The Last Bookstore, where good memories can be made.
Evening - Food and fun
You'll certainly be spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out in LA.
If you've got the budget for it, it's worth trying Bestia. This Italian inspired restaurant has long been favoured by Angelenos. Many argue it is the best food in the city, so it's up to you to decide if they're right. Alternatively, sticking with the Italian theme, you can try Pizzanista, where you can have pizza in a saloon.
Afterwards, enjoy a drink at Villains Tavern whilst listening to live folk music. You can then grab an Uber and head to Sunset Blvd, where you can be amongst the true glitz and glamour of LA.
It's a tourist attraction just being here in the evening, where you can check out famous bars that some of the world's most famous celebrities go to.
Day 2
Early morning - Walk of Fame
It's up early again to make the most of day two in Los Angeles.
You can walk towards the famous Hollywood Blvd to take selfies on the Walk of Fame, finding your favourites (and stepping on your not-so favourites). You can also find some of the best vantage points to take pictures of the famous Hollywood sign, which looms large over a lot of streets in the city.
There's always lots to do for tourists around here, so take your time and have some fun.
Late morning - Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive
A real 'rich and famous' day awaits.
Although you can take an Uber to Beverly Hills, we'd suggest taking one of the tour buses to Wilshire Blvd and around the Hills, where you'll be shown some of the incredible houses owned by the rich and famous.
It's also worth doing some window shopping at Rodeo Drive. We say window shopping, as if you're on a budget like ours, then the eye-watering prices are almost funny in size. Luxury brands like Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Prada all line up a street where the face of luxury is definitely on display.
For a bite to eat, a Lunch at Beverly Hills will never leave you disappointed. Two very different options here, but equally daring: Fred's Restaurant inside Barney's store for something filling, or head to The Farm for a healthy brunch.
Afternoon - Santa Monica
From Beverly Hills, you can take the Blue Line bus towards Santa Monica.
Visiting Santa Monica is like experiencing the soul of Los Angeles. There's nothing more recognizable than a walk through the palm trees dotted along the California coast, a must-do for anyone visiting. You will discover fantastic beaches, cafes, and bars here, making it a great place to chill after a hectic morning.
In the permanent street market that stretches from Santa Monica to Venice Beach, you will experience a promenade jam-packed with motley stalls, allowing you to pick up some little gifts to remember your time here.
Evening - Food & Griffith Observatory
It’s time to sign off in style.
For your final evening, you can enjoy an early dinner at Cassia, an Asian food bistro serving classic South Asia dishes infused with Californian flair.
In addition to its excellent food, the restaurant is attached to another of Santa Monica's greats, Rustic Canyon, known for its excellent wine.
If you've got time, try and get to the Griffith Observatory at the end of the day. The panoramic views of the city (as well as the Hollywood sign) are truly something else, bringing a spectacular end to your whirlwind 48 Hours in Los Angeles.
Additional tips for Los Angeles
Getting from the airport There are several options, but the Metro is the cheapest. There is a free shuttle ("G") that runs from the airport to the "Aviation Station" stop (green line)
Getting around LA Having a car allows you to go wherever you want, but be prepared for traffic jams! If you prefer to use buses or the metro, you can purchase a $7 daily pass that allows you to use all forms of transportation.
Will I be able to do more? You should either sign up for a tour that will take you around the city's main attractions or purchase a tourist bus ticket. Also, getting the Go Los Angeles Card is an excellent way to gain access to most paid attractions.
