The City of Angels. The Entertainment Capital of the World. Whatever you want to call LA, there’s no denying its charm and beauty. But, contrary to what many may think, LA is not just Hollywood. In fact, LA is huge, and only having two days to explore it kinda stressed me out. How was I supposed to do two days in LA without missing ou?
As it turns out, you can see quite a good bit of LA in two days, and I’m here to show you my route.
Note: This post, although titled Two Days in LA, really talks about LA and its surrounding areas. I’m keeping the title though, because it has a nice ring to it.
Walk of Fame
First up, you can’t go to Hollywood without visiting the Walk of Fame. In case you don’t know what that is, it’s a sidewalk along Hollywood Boulevard covered with red stars with celebrity names written on them. I wouldn’t suggest that you walk the entire length of the street, because that would take forever and would get quite boring. Instead, look up your favorite celebs and the locations of their stars, and take a pic when you get there!
TCL Chinese Theatre
Also located on Hollywood Boulevard is the TCL Chinese Theatre, a historic cinema which hosts movie premieres and immortalizes handprints and footprints of movie stars from around the world. Pictured above are the handprints and footprints of the golden trio from Harry Potter, and their wands!
Hollywood & Highland Mall
Another attraction located on Hollywood Boulevard is the Hollywood & Highland mall. The selection of stores is vast and sure to fit anyone’s taste. What’s also worth checking out is the view of the Hollywood sign from the back balcony of the mall. If you’re looking for a picture with the sign, this is not the best place to get it, as it is absolutely tiny; however, it is a nice first look. Despite what Miley Cyrus may have you think, the Hollywood sign is not visible everywhere in Hollywood.
Sunset Boulevard
A quite famous street in LA, countless songs have been written about Sunset Boulevard. It’s best known for the huge billboards lining the sides of the street, but a drive down Sunset Boulevard and its surroundings at sunset is quite picturesque as well.
Rodeo Drive
Rodeo Drive is one of the most famous shopping streets in Los Angeles. Every store on the street is extremely high-end; some even require you to schedule appointments beforehand just to shop. It’s a street built for celebrities, but you don’t have to be a celebrity to enjoy it. I may not be able to afford anything on the street, but the street itself is pretty enough that I enjoyed my time regardless.
Mulholland Drive
If you’re looking for a better view of the Hollywood sign, I’d highly suggest Mulholland Drive. The sign is still small, but it’s a great deal bigger than the view from Hollywood & Highland. It’s the biggest view of the Hollywood sign you can get without going way out of your way.
Besides a view of the sign, Mulholland Drive also offers absolutely gorgeous views of the entire expanse of LA, and sightings of grand celebrity homes. But be careful driving – there’s a reason there’s an entire movie based on it. Car accidents are common, but don’t let that deter you! You will be fine driving it as long as you’re sober and careful.
Santa Monica Pier
An iconic part of Southern California, Santa Monica pier is both great as a beach and as a pier. The pier itself is lined with souvenirs for tourists and more importantly, great food. There is also a selection of amusement park rides to suit anyone, including a (small) roller coaster and ferris wheel! For great photos, pop underneath the pier for a great backdrop to portrait shots.
3rd Street Promenade
With shops of every kind (they have a very wide range of selections) and amazing restaurants, there’s no reason not to visit 3rd street promenade. Pop in just for a short meal or stay for hours browsing the stores. It’s up to you!
Wondering where else you should eat in LA? Read my blog post LA Eats here!
Venice Canals
Venice isn’t named Venice for nothing! Originally planned to be a younger sister to the original Italian Venice, there is a small network of canals in Venice, LA. They are absolutely stunning, and quite well worth the visit. Just remember that people do live here (man, that’s the dream) so don’t be super rowdy.
Venice Beach
If you’re looking for a less crowded and touristy beach, Venice beach is the one for you. I found it to be far less crowded than that of Santa Monica, yet just as gorgeous. This was definitely my favorite photo spot in Los Angeles, so if you’re looking for that perfect shot for the gram, you’ll find it here!
Looking for other photogenic spots? See: 15 Instagram-worthy spots in LA.
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