What do you think when you hear Los Angeles?
Film, television, + pretty people? Of course LA is a hub for media + the world’s most attractive beings, but it’s also a vibrant, young city with culture + excitement at every turn.
If you’re into a chill, slower day-to-day culture filled with sunshine and palm trees, your next road trip should absolutely include Los Angeles. Even if you’ve been or live there currently, our comprehensive 48-hour guide will inspire you to step outside your comfort zone.
Day 1
Start your day with an açai superfood bowl (or really any bowl) from Cafe Gratitude. With 5 locations in the Los Angeles area, you’re bound to be near at least one.
Once you’ve fed your hungry traveler’s soul, head over to PlateFit. We know, you’re on vacation, that’s why we suggest PlateFit: this all-around workout is a mere 27 minutes long. If you’ve never heard of PlateFit, that’s because it’s an LA-only studio featuring high-intensity interval training done on individual Power Plate machines.
For lunch, head to the beachy vibes of Venice to Great White, home to Australian-inspired, healthy dining. Great White sits right across from the Venice sign and besides having delicious healthy food is great for people watching too.
For your afternoon activity, head over to the Barnsdall Art Park. Hang out in the park for a wine tasting, an outdoor movie, or attend any number of the special events happening in the park during the year.
For dinner, walk along Sunset Boulevard (or the USC Village location) to The Butcher, the Baker, + the Cappuccino Maker. This bakery / grill / farm-fresh restaurant has a rotating menu that changes often, providing interesting, seasonal choices no matter when you visit.
While you’re near the Sunset Strip, check out the bustling nightlife. The Strip is the home of the legendary Comedy Store + Laugh Factory (alumni the likes of Dave Chappelle, Richard Pryor, Jim Carrey, Tim Allen, + more).
Go to bed! You have another big day ahead of you.
Day 2
Time for breakfast: Beaming is a hot spot for juices of all types. Try their coconut ceviche or raw vegetable lasagna while you’re there. With seven Los Angeles-area locations, Beaming is a great spot for a between-meals, nutrient-dense snack.
Take your workout outside to the famous Runyon Canyon trails which will get your heart racing. See views of the many architectural wonders of West Hollywood, including the Capital Records building + the many high-rises along the Miracle Mile. Runyon Canyon is even a popular destination for locals — you’ll feel like a regular.
After your hike, make your way over to Fala Bar for casual Mediterranean vegan food in West Hollywood. Fala Bar has two slogans: #FarmtoFala + #NoFakeShit. Take that as proof of their fun vibe.
After your lunch, take a 40-minute trolley tour of Rodeo Drive to see more of Beverly Hills. This tour is fun + inexpensive compared to the other more touristy ones that leave from Hollywood Boulevard.
It’s time for a change of location: a short (inexpensive) Uber / Lyft away is Central LA. In this area is the AOC Wine Bar where you can get a drink during their cocktail hour (5-7 PM) before an incredible dinner there. Inventive combinations of plates, salads, veggies, + more. Before you leave, be sure to get a warm-from-the-wood-oven dessert or a dessert platter to share. (Think vanilla cheesecake with blood orange swirled vanilla ice cream + blackberry vacherin with blackberry sorbet… yeah.)
Central LA is also home to the legendary Hollywood Bowl, Staples Center + Pantages Theatre. There is bound to be a fun production in one of the performance venues or a game in the Staples Center, so be sure to book your tickets in advance.
Some extras
LACMA: Los Angeles County Museum of Art
Malibu Longboards Surf School: Surf lessons
Sunset Ranch: Horseback riding + BBQ (try it at sunset)
Moon Juice: only in LA, pop in for some sex dust, brain dust, or sleep dust
Sqirl- insanely good food, think crispy rice bowl or the famed ricotta toast.
No matter which activities you decide to take up, Los Angeles is full of interesting places to visit, delicious food for all palates + fabulous nightlife. Bon voyage!