Los Angeles has loads to keep you entertained! Besides Hollywood, the city has many famous beaches and thrilling theme parks to boot. Our three-day Los Angeles Travel Guide suggests three ways to explore the city, and 21 things to see-do-eat too!

There’s something about Los Angeles (LA) that sparks excitement. It’s glitzy, it’s glamourous… it’s Entertainment Capital of the World for good reason! So despite the severe jet lag, I was wildly excited when I stumbled off the plane, feverishly fantasising: Will I meet a celebrity? Will I get discovered by Hollywood? Will I become famous? 

Scenic Shot of Hollywood Sign - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

The short answer is no. None of those dreams came true. Yet, I wasn’t too disappointed. I found myself too busy enjoying LA’s attractions to chase after stardom. After all, LA is packed with many sun-kissed beaches, fascinating museums, and (of course!) the star-studded Hollywood industry.

But with so much to see in LA, it can get daunting when you have limited time. To help you out, our Los Angeles Travel Guide provides three sample itineraries based on your interests. We’ve also included 21 things to eat, see and do so you’d never get bored in LA!

Pre-trip Essentials

Receiving Tickets with GO LA Pass - SF to LA Road Trip Itinerary

Connectivity: We shared a 4G pocket WiFi, which you can use instantly once you arrive in LA, and connect up to five devices.

Getting around LA: Purchase a TAP card from any Metro station for US$2 (~S$2.70). Thereafter, you can add a one-day Pass for US$7 (~S$9.50), which can be used on all Metro services.

GO LA Card: This nifty all-inclusive card grants you admission to over 30 LA attractions for one low price, with one to seven-day flexi options. The GO LA Card can only be used from 9:30AM – 5:30PM, but you can stay at the attraction past that timing. All you need to do is scan the card on your phone, and you’re in!

3-Day Los Angeles Itineraries

The GO LA Card includes entry to a diverse range of attractions from theme parks to museums, and guided tours around film studios or celebrity homes. We’ve drawn up three-day Los Angeles itineraries for these categories: Hollywood fans, thrill-seekers, and avid sightseers. Attractions listed with asterisks (*) are covered by the GO LA Card.

1) Hollywood Fans

Highlights: Sony Pictures Studio Tour* — Universal Studios Hollywood* — Warner Bros. Studio Tour* — Griffith Observatory

Hollywood Fans Itinerary - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

2) Thrill-seekers

Highlights: Six Flags Magic Mountain* — Universal Studios Hollywood* — Pacific Park*

Thrill-Seekers Itinerary - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

3) Avid Sightseers

Highlights: Whale Watching Cruise at San Pedro* — OUE Skyspace* — Warner Bros. Studio Tour* — Madame Tussauds*

Avid Sightseers - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

21 Things to See-Do-Eat in LA

If you’re staying for longer or want a greater variety of activities, ths Los Angeles Travel Guide has listed more exciting places, fun activities and lip-smacking eats to spruce up your LA adventure! 

What to See in LA

1) Hollywood Boulevard

Hollywood Boulevard - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

Photo credit: LA Insider Tours

One of LA’s most popular sites, Hollywood Boulevard features dazzling attractions that line the short road like the iconic Walk of Fame, Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, and cement hand and footprints of famous celebrities.

How to get there: Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Vine Station.

*Pro-tip: Avoid taking photos with costumed people who roam around Hollywood Boulevard. They’ll “ask” for a tip afterwards, sometimes starting from US$10 (~S$13.60).

2) Venice Beach

Venice Beach Boardwalk - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

Photo credit: Sergio Ruiz

Venice Beach is the perfect place to get that golden tan and soak in the chill vibes. There’s plenty to explore along the gorgeous stretch, from the famous Muscle Beach where bodybuilders work out, to quirky shops along the Broadwalk and the nearby Santa Monica Beach.

How to get there: From Downtown LA, take bus 33 from Spring/7th bus stop to Main/Grand bus stop.

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3) OUE Skyspace LA

OUE Skyspace Sunset Reflection - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

The OUE Skyspace is the tallest observation deck in LA, and is hands-down a must-go to capture breathtaking vantage views of the city.

Entrance Fee: US$25 (~S$33.80, free with GO LA Card)
Opening Hours:
10AM – 10PM
How to get there: Take the Metro Line to 7th St/Metro Center station, then walk 500m.

4) LA County Museum of Art

Urban Light at LA Country Museum of Art - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

Chris Burden’s Urban Light installation. Photo credit: U.S. News

The world-class LA County Museum of Art houses thousands of international art pieces, including brilliant works from Picasso and Andy Warhol.

Entrance Fee: US$25 (~S$33.80)
Opening Hours:
Varies
How to get there: Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland station, then take bus 217 to Fairfax/Wilshire, and walk 320m.

5) Griffith Observatory

Watching the Sunset at Griffith Observatory - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

Seeing stars doesn’t just refer to celebrities; Actual stars count too! Located on Mount Hollywood, the Griffith Observatory is a massive observatory. It offers telescopes for public use, an impressive planetarium, and panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood sign.

Entrance Fee: Free
Opening Hours:
12PM – 10PM (Tue – Fri), opens 10AM on weekends, closed on Mon
How to get there: Take the Metro Red Line to Vermont/Sunset station, then take the DASH Observatory bus.

6) Natural History Museum of LA

Dinosaur Skeletons at the Natural History Museum of LA - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

Showcasing dinosaurs, mammals, and even human and Neanderthal skeletons, nature lovers are in for a fun time at LA’s Natural History Museum.

Entrance Fee: US$15 (~S$20.30, free with GO LA Card)
Opening Hours: 9:30AM – 5PM
How to get there: Take the Metro Expo Line to Expo Park/USC station, then walk 160m.

7) Battleship IOWA Museum

Battleship IOWA Museum - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

Ever wondered how the inside of a naval warship looks like, or what the naval flags mean? The Battleship IOWA Museum answers your curiosity. Open to the public, you’ll embark on a fascinating self-guided tour around the historical battleship that was used in WWII, the Korean War, and the Cold War.

Entrance Fee: US$19.95 (~S$27, free with GO LA Card)
Opening Hours:
10AM – 5PM (Last entry 4PM)
How to get there: Take the Metro Silver Line to Beacon/1st station, then walk 320m.

Things to Do in LA

8) Disneyland

Streetside Performance at Disneyland - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

This Los Angeles travel guide loves everything Disney so Disneyland (and its “big sister” Disney California Adventure) can’t be missed. Once you enter, you’ll find yourself immersed in elaborate themed worlds with exciting rides and fantastical parades. Don’t forget to have your happy ending with a wonderful fireworks show!

Cost: From ~S$147
Opening Hours: Varies
How to get there: Take bus 460 from Spring/7th bus stop in Downtown LA.

Read also: The Ultimate Disneyland California Guide for Tourists in 1 Day — Discounted Tickets and 25 Hacks to Maximising Your Experience

9) Cruise Around in San Pedro

Watching Wild Dolphins at San Pedro - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

When you tire of the city, sail out to open waters! The LA Waterfront Cruises offers enjoyable daily harbour cruises, and whale watching tours (weekends only).

We went on the whale watching tour, hoping to spot migrating grey whales. Although we didn’t manage to see any, we had a great time watching many playful dolphins porpoising near our boat.

We recommend calling ahead to make a reservation as walk-ins are based on availability.

Cost: From US$30 (~S$40.60, free with GO LA Card)
Cruise Timings:
Harbour cruise varies; Whale watching tour operates at 10AM, 12:30PM, and 3PM
How to get there: Take the Metro Silver Line to Beacon/1st station, then walk 1.1km to the ticketing office.

10) Warner Bros. Studio Tour

Holding an Oscar Trophy at Warner Bros Studio Tour - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

You wouldn’t really know how heavy an Oscar is (3.8kg!) until you hold it.

One of my personal favourites from this Los Angeles Travel Guide; This is a must-do for anyone enamoured with Hollywood!

The Warner Bros. Studio Tour brings you behind the silver screen to discover over 90 years of movie magic. Wicked highlights include touring working sets and soundstages, learning interesting facts about the Hollywood industry, and even holding a real Oscar trophy!

Cost: US$69 (~S$93.40, free with GO LA Card)
Tour Timings:
12PM or 2PM (call in advance to make reservations)
How to get there: Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland station, then take bus 222.

11) Madame Tussauds Hollywood

Posing with Charlie Chaplin at Madame Tussauds Hollywood - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

Clowning around like Charlie Chaplin is a specialty of ours.

If you’re determined to meet celebrities, Madame Tussauds is the next best (legal) option. You can take fun photos with numerous wax figures of celebrities and musicians from different eras like Charlie Chaplin, Elvis Presley and Lady Gaga.

Entrance fee: US$30.95 (~S$42, free with GO LA Card)
Opening
 Hours: 10AM – 8PM, closes 10PM on weekends (may vary)
How to get there: Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland station, then walk 320m.

12) Hike to the Hollywood Sign

Couple Taking Photos at Hollywood Sign - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

It’s easy to admire the iconic Hollywood Sign from afar, but hiking to it is a whole new experience that you won’t forget or regret! Once you’ve reached the top, you’ll be rewarded with an vast, sweeping view of LA — well-worth the time and effort.

There are three routes of varying difficulties to the sign. For us, we went on the shortest but hardest route: the Wonder View Trail. It was a challenging uphill hike, but doable with  the right gear.

13) Universal Studios Hollywood

Posing with Minion and Gru at Universal Studios Hollywood - 3-day Los Angeles Travel Guide

A magical must-do for movie fans and theme park lovers alike! Universal Studios Hollywood dunks you into the worlds of Harry Potter and Despicable Me (to name a few), where you can pick out your wands or dance with Minions. There’s also the world-famous studio tour that brings you on an interactive, behind-the-scenes journey of live studios and hair-raising simulations.

Cost: US$129 (~S$175, free with the 3, 5 and 7-day GO LA Card)
Opening Hours: Varies
How to get there: Take the Metro Red Line to Universal City station, then cross the street and take a shuttle bus that runs every 10–15mins.

Read also: Insider’s Guide to LA Theme Parks

14) Pacific Park

Pacific Park on Santa Monica Pier - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

Located on Santa Monica pier, the carnival-like Pacific Park offers many gripping rides and game booths that will thrill all ages. While we recommend getting an unlimited ride wristband as it’s much more worthwhile than buying individual ride tickets. Go forth and ride on!

Do note that some rides may be closed during low season (Nov – Feb).

Cost: US$32.95 (~S$44.60, free with GO LA Card)
Opening Hours:
 Varies
How to get there: Take the Metro Expo Line to Downtown Santa Monica station, then walk 800m.

Places to Eat in LA

15) Hard Rock Cafe

Hard Rock Cafe Atomic Burger - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

You don’t have to be a rock ‘n roll fan to enjoy classic American grub at Hard Rock Cafe! We got a meal voucher that includes the full deal: A burger/sandwich, drink, dessert as well as tips and gratuities. Big eaters can go for the Atomic Burger and Guinness Cheeseburger, both of which were incredibly juicy, tender, and huge.

Cost: ~S$44
Opening Hours: 11AM – 11PM, closes 12AM on Fri and Sat
How to get there: Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland station, then walk 140m.

16) Grand Central Market

Salvadoran Pupusas at Grand Central Market - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

A historical landmark in Downtown LA, the Grand Central Market parallels an exciting buffet that will leave you spoilt for choice with its wide variety of international cuisines. We recommend having Salvadoran pupusas, a thick tortilla stuffed with delicious toppings like beans and cheese (US$3.65, ~S$5) — something you’d hardly find in Singapore! 

Opening Hours: 8AM – 10PM
How to get there: Take the Metro to Pershing Square station, then walk 100m.

17) San Pedro Fish Market

Eating Shrimp Tray at San Pedro Fish Market - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

The San Pedro Fish Market is well-known for its world-famous shrimp tray (starts from US$39, ~S$53). No lies here — it’s a literal tray stacked with freshly-cooked shrimps and vegetables in butter and herbs. If that isn’t enough, you can add a huge slab of garlic bread to soak up the leftover sauces.

Opening Hours: 8AM – 8PM
How to get there:
 Take the Metro Silver Line to Beacon/1st station, then walk 1.3km.

18) In-N-Out Burgers

Eating Dinner at In-N-Out Burgers - SF to LA Road Trip Itinerary

When in California, you’ve just got to eat at In-N-Out Burgers. It’s quinteseential in this Los Angeles travel guide! This Californian fast food chain is renowned for its inexpensive burgers, and animal-style sauce (a savoury concoction of secret sauce, cheese, onions and grilled pickles). If you’re feeling adventurous, order the interesting stuff from their not-so-secret menu!

Cost: From US$2.10 (~S$2.85)
Opening Hours: 10:30AM – 1AM, closes 1:30AM on Fri and Sat
How to get there: Take the Metro Red Line to Hollywood/Highland station, then walk 650m (and other locations).

19) La Isla Bonita

Eating Tostadas from La Isla Bonita Taco Truck - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

Nearby Venice Beach sits La Isla Bonita, a famous taco truck that serves cheap eats like tacos and burritos. Their ceviche tostadas (US$3, ~S$4.10) is said to be the best in LA, and was refreshingly delicious on a warm day. You probably won’t catch Madonna flamenco dancing here, though.

Cost: US$2 – US$8 (~S$2.70 – ~S$10.90)
Opening Hours: 11:30AM – 6PM, closed on Thu
How to get there: Take bus 33 from Spring/7th bus stop in Downtown LA to Main NB & Sunset FS bus stop, then walk 500m.

20) Bruxie 

Eating Fried Chicken Waffle from Bruxies - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

Nothing screams soul food louder than some good ol’ fried chicken and waffles! Bruxie serves up a crispy Original Chicken Waffle Sandwich (US$10.50, ~S$14.30) that’s both heavenly and sinful.

Cost: US$8.45 – US$21.95 (~S$11.50 – ~S$29.80)
Opening Hours: 10AM – 9PM (Mon – Thu), 10AM – 10PM (Fri – Sat), 9AM – 9PM (Sun)
How to get there: Take the Metro Expo Line to Downtown Santa Monica station, then walk 650m.

21) Dirt Dog

Eating Hot Dogs and Fries at Dirt Dog - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

Imagine a jacked-up version of the American hot dog — that’s what Dirt Dog dishes out! The small eatery turns the simple street fare into a flavourful medley of soft breads, freshly-grilled sausages, and generous toppings like fries and chili.

Cost: From US$6.50 – US$8.50 (~S$8.80 – ~S$11.50)
Opening Hours: 10:30AM – 10PM, closes 11PM from Thu – Sat
How to get there: Take the Metro Expo Line to LATTC/Ortho Institute station, then walk 320m.

The Best Way to Experience Los Angeles

Watching the Sunset Behind Pacific Park - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

LA is packed with gorgeous scenery and riveting adventures like Universal Studios Hollywood and OUE Skyspace. However, you don’t need to blow a hole in your wallet to experience the glitz and glamour of the city. We got a GO LA Card, which included access to many of LA’s attractions, and visited eight attractions in three days. Compared to paying at the gate, we saved a total of ~US$40 with this card.

Scanning LA GO Pass on Phone - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

We got even more bang for our buck when we purchased our cards via Klook, which saved us an extra ~10%! On top of the huge discounts the card already has, it’s pretty worthwhile if you ask us.

The GO LA Card helped us save time as it allowed priority access to some attractions. We skipped queues and headed straight into the attraction after scanning the cards on our phones. The card also offers users flexibility like open-dated theme park tickets — perfect for those who want some spunk and spontaneity on their trip!

Do note that some attractions like the Warner Bros. Studio Tour require prior reservation, so we recommend booking these activities in advance. In the meantime, you can visit other attractions that don’t require them.

Overhead Drone Shot in Santa Monica Beach - 3-Day Los Angeles Travel Guide

As we packed up and readied to leave LA for our road trip to San Francisco, I felt a twinge of sadness. Not only were we leaving one of the world’s most prominent cities that gave us such fond memories, I was leaving without being discovered by Hollywood and becoming famous. 😢 I’ll just have to continue writing for The Travel Intern instead of signing autographs (I’m kidding, please don’t fire me).

We hope our travel guide is helpful in planning your LA trip. Maybe your luck will be better than mine, and you’ll spot a celebrity or two!

Did we miss out on anything in our Los Angeles Travel Guide? Tell us in the comments below!


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3 COMMENTS

  1. Thank you for recommending interesting places! I will be here in just two days, but I will have a rental car for this, I hope to visit as many places as possible

  2. I have just been to LA for ten days last September and I’m definitely going back next year. There’s just so much to see and do. There really is something for everyone.

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