Travel around Los Angeles with Bobby
Day 1Hollywood Dreams and Sunset Boulevard Adventures
My first day in Los Angeles kicked off with a visit to the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame. It’s one of those places that instantly gives you the feeling of being in the heart of the entertainment capital. Walking along the stars, I found myself gazing at names I grew up watching on the big screen. The energy was electric, and street performers added to the vibrant atmosphere. After soaking in the Hollywood vibes, I made my way to the nearby TCL Chinese Theatre, where movie premieres take place, and admired the handprints of Hollywood legends.
For lunch, I stopped at Musso & Frank Grill, one of LA’s oldest restaurants, famous for its classic American menu and vintage Hollywood charm. Afterward, I couldn’t resist driving along Sunset Boulevard, passing iconic spots like the Chateau Marmont. I ended the evening with a visit to the Griffith Observatory, which provided a stunning view of the LA skyline at sunset. The Hollywood Sign in the background was the perfect way to end my first day.
Hollywood is a must-see, but be prepared for crowds. If you're into stunning views, head to Griffith Observatory at sunset—it’s unforgettable.
Day 2Coastal Vibes at Venice Beach and Santa Monica
Day two was all about relaxing by the coast, and Venice Beach was the perfect spot to start. The boardwalk is a feast for the senses: street vendors, skateboarders, and artists all contributing to its quirky charm. I rented a bike and cruised along the beach path, which stretches all the way to Santa Monica. The sun was shining, and I took my time, stopping to watch a few performances and enjoy the beach atmosphere.
Santa Monica Pier was next, and I couldn’t resist hopping on the Ferris wheel for a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean. The pier had that classic funfair vibe, with games, food stalls, and families enjoying the day out. For lunch, I indulged in fresh seafood at The Lobster, a spot with unbeatable ocean views.
I ended my day with a leisurely walk down the Third Street Promenade, where street performers entertained the crowds and shops stayed open late. Santa Monica had a laid-back vibe that made me feel like I was on a real vacation.
Lunch at The Lobster in Santa Monica was a seafood lover's dream, with fresh dishes and stunning ocean views. The crab cakes were exceptional, and the overall dining experience felt relaxed yet refined. A perfect coastal meal to match the beach atmosphere.
Food
The beach hotel I picked in Santa Monica had fantastic ocean views and direct access to the pier. The spacious room and amenities were excellent, though it came with a higher price tag typical for beachfront locations.
Accomodation
Biking along Venice Beach and Santa Monica was the perfect way to enjoy the coastal scenery. The vibe at Venice was lively and artistic, while Santa Monica offered a more serene experience, especially with the views from the pier's Ferris wheel.
Activity
Venice Beach is fun and lively, but if you prefer a calmer scene, Santa Monica offers a more relaxed vibe with plenty to do.
Day 3The Magic of Universal Studios
On my third day, I decided to dive into the magic of Universal Studios. As a movie buff, this place was a dream come true. I started with the Studio Tour, which took me behind the scenes of some of Hollywood’s biggest productions. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter was another highlight, bringing my favorite childhood movies to life. I spent hours exploring the sets, riding roller coasters, and even trying butterbeer!
For lunch, I had a quick bite at Three Broomsticks—the atmosphere was straight out of a fantasy novel. In the afternoon, I explored the rest of the park, enjoying rides like the Jurassic World adventure and The Simpsons Ride. Universal Studios offered a full day of excitement, and by the time I left, I felt like I had stepped in and out of multiple worlds.
Lunch at Three Broomsticks in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter brought fantasy to life. The classic British dishes like shepherd’s pie were solid, and the immersive theme made the meal a fun experience. Not gourmet, but perfect for the atmosphere.
Food
I stayed at a hotel in the Universal City area, which was convenient for accessing the park. The rooms were spacious and catered well to families and groups, though it was a bit generic in design. The proximity made it worth the stay.
Accomodation
Universal Studios delivered an action-packed day. From the behind-the-scenes studio tour to the thrilling rides, especially in the Harry Potter world, it was a magical experience for any film lover.
Activity
Universal Studios is a fantastic day out for movie lovers and families alike. Be sure to arrive early and make use of the Express Pass if you want to avoid long lines.
Day 4Exploring Downtown LA and The Getty Center
Day four started in downtown Los Angeles, where I explored The Broad, a contemporary art museum with a striking architectural design. Inside, I marveled at the works of artists like Jeff Koons and Yayoi Kusama. From there, I walked over to Grand Central Market for a casual lunch. The market is a food lover’s paradise with countless stalls offering everything from tacos to gourmet sandwiches.
In the afternoon, I visited The Getty Center. The building itself is an architectural masterpiece, but the views from the hilltop, overlooking the city and the Pacific Ocean, stole the show. The art collections inside were diverse, ranging from European paintings to modern sculptures. I could have easily spent hours admiring the exhibits, but I made sure to take some time to stroll through the gardens before heading back.
Grand Central Market was a highlight for casual dining, with endless food stalls offering diverse options. I opted for authentic Mexican tacos, which were fresh and packed with flavor. It’s the perfect place to experience LA’s culinary diversity.
Food
My downtown hotel offered great access to The Broad and other cultural spots, with modern amenities and sleek design. The rooms were comfortable, but the urban noise was noticeable. Still, the location was unbeatable for exploring the city center.
Accomodation
Exploring The Getty Center was a peaceful break from the city’s buzz. The stunning architecture and world-class art collection made for a deeply enriching afternoon, and the views from the hilltop were unbeatable.
Activity
The Getty Center is not only about the art but also the breathtaking views and peaceful gardens. It’s a nice break from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Day 5Chinatown, Little Tokyo, and LA's Nightlife
On my final day, I dove into the cultural side of LA. I started with a morning visit to Chinatown, exploring its vibrant shops, art galleries, and temples. I stopped for a delicious dim sum lunch at Ocean Seafood Restaurant. Then, I headed over to Little Tokyo, which felt like a small slice of Japan in the middle of LA. I visited a few cultural shops and ended up at Daikokuya for some of the best ramen I’ve ever had.
As the day turned into evening, I decided to experience a bit of LA’s nightlife. I headed to The Varnish, a speakeasy-style bar downtown known for its expertly crafted cocktails. The atmosphere was intimate and vintage, making it a great spot to wind down after a busy week.
I indulged in dim sum at Ocean Seafood Restaurant in Chinatown for lunch, followed by authentic ramen in Little Tokyo at Daikokuya. Both meals were bursting with flavor and authenticity, offering an incredible mix of cultural dining experiences.
Food
My last night was spent at a boutique hotel downtown with a hip, artsy vibe. It was modern, clean, and comfortable, with a rooftop bar that offered nice views of the city. It was a stylish way to end the trip.
Accomodation
From exploring the vibrant streets of Chinatown and Little Tokyo to experiencing LA’s speakeasy nightlife at The Varnish, it was a perfect mix of cultural exploration and evening fun. The bar's intimate atmosphere and creative cocktails were a highlight.
Activity
Exploring LA’s cultural neighborhoods is a must! The food and the atmosphere are authentic, giving you a taste of different cultures within one city.
Summary of My Trip
Through Bobby's eyes
My experiences
Los Angeles offers a dynamic mix of iconic attractions, vibrant cultures, and endless activities that appeal to all kinds of travelers. From world-famous landmarks to hidden gems, the city constantly surprises you with its diversity and energy. Whether you're strolling along the Hollywood Walk of Fame or savoring the local cuisine in a cultural neighborhood, LA promises a unique experience every time. Here's how I would rate my experience in the City of Angels:
Attractions
Value for Money
Cuisine
People and Culture
Accommodation
Cleanliness and Environment
Transportation
Shopping
Safety
Overall Experience
Travel around Los Angeles with Bobby with More Details
I shared my personal experiences and impressions of Los Angeles on my blog page. If you want to explore the city in a more in-depth and comprehensive way, you can check out my other content full of detailed information and special tips.
I kicked off my LA food adventure at Musso & Frank Grill, a legendary spot known for its old Hollywood charm. The classic American dishes, particularly the steak, were flavorful and satisfying. The ambiance, with its history-filled walls, added a unique flavor to the meal.
Food
I stayed at a boutique hotel near Hollywood Boulevard, offering great proximity to key attractions. The room was modern and comfortable, though a bit on the smaller side for the price. The location made it incredibly easy to explore Hollywood’s highlights.
Accomodation
Visiting the Walk of Fame and Griffith Observatory made for an iconic start to my trip. The views of LA from Griffith at sunset were breathtaking, and the Hollywood vibe was exactly as I’d imagined. These must-see spots really set the tone for the rest of the trip.
Activity