Let’s face it: you need more than a weekend to experience everything that Los Angeles has to offer. Even so, that’s no reason to wait to plan a visit. You can do a lot in a short amount of time if you have an agenda guiding you.
The first question to answer is this: what are the top things to do during a weekend trip to Los Angeles?
Answers vary based on personal preferences and budget among other factors, but here are five ideas to kick you off.
1. Visit Universal Studios Hollywood
As a film studio and theme park, you can spend hours on end at this venue and still only see a portion of what it has to offer. Even better is the fact that you can enjoy yourself alone, with a partner, or with your family. There’s something for everyone at Universal Studios Hollywood. Visit on your next weekend trip to see all that it has to offer first hand.
2. Visit one or more area museums
There’s no shortage of museums in and around the Los Angeles area. Not only is this a great way to spend a day, but it positions you to meet other people with similar interests. Some of the top options include the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, the Autry Museum of the American West, Wende Museum, and the California Science Center.
It doesn’t matter if you visit one of these museums or several, it’s sure to put a smile on your face.
3. Check out Venice Beach
Venice Beach is one of the most well known beaches in the world. So, if you’re in Los Angeles, you owe it to yourself to stop by to see what all the fuss is about. It won’t take long to realize why it has such a good reputation.
There’s a ton to do at Venice Beach, and in many cases, you don’t have to spend a dime to entertain yourself. For example, you could take a long walk along the Venice Canals or take in the action at the Venice Skate Park.
And of course, when you’re ready to wine and dine, there are several well-known establishments in the area.
4. Go for a hike
It won’t take long to realize that there are many places in and around Los Angeles for hiking. And the more time you spend on the trails, the more you’ll realize that there’s a lot you have been missing.
Some of the best areas to visit include Franklin Canyon Park, Griffith Park Trails, Eaton Canyon, and Will Rogers State Historic Park.
It doesn’t matter if you want to take a short hike to start your day or spend the entire day on the trails, there’s an option for you in the local area.
Note: Los Angeles has so many hiking trails that people from around the state visit often. For example, if you’re going through alcohol treatment in San Diego, you may want to visit the area to experience the beauty of its nature.
5. Take a bike ride
There are many ways to enjoy yourself on a weekend trip to Los Angeles, but not many beat a bike ride around the area. Some of the best options include the LA River bike path, Chandler Bikeway, Ballona Creek bike path, and Mandeville Canyon Road.
Bring your bike along for the trip or rent one when you arrive. Either way, you don’t want to miss out on this opportunity for a good time.
Final thoughts
If you want to make the most of your trip to Los Angeles, start every day early and follow your itinerary as closely as possible. And of course, take into consideration why you’re visiting the area.
For example, if you’re visiting someone in the area who is unable to accompany you on your explorations, you may not have all day, every day to spend in Los Angeles. You need to be by your side.
In other words, take your personal circumstances into consideration and then get started.
Do you have other things that you enjoy doing in Los Angeles? Would you rather spend time indoors or outdoors?