Looking to explore LA over a long weekend? This 3-day itinerary covers everything from iconic landmarks to local eats, with driving tips for those traveling from the San Francisco Bay Area. Whether you’re planning your first LA road trip or a return visit, here’s a guide to help you make the most of your time.
Day 1: Bay Area → Santa Monica → Beverly Hills → Griffith Observatory
6:30 AM – Depart from the Bay Area
Start the journey early to beat traffic. The drive to LA typically takes about 6 hours via I-5. Speed limits can reach 70 mph, but many drivers go faster—stay alert and drive safely.
1:00 PM – Arrive at Santa Monica Pier
After arriving in LA, head straight to Santa Monica. Walk the pier, enjoy the ocean breeze, and grab lunch at JAPADOG, a Japanese-style hot dog stand. The wagyu dog is a top pick, and lighter options are available.
Address: 200 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
2:30 PM – Explore Beverly Hills & Rodeo Drive
Take a short drive to Beverly Hills. Visit the famous Beverly Hills sign and stroll Rodeo Drive, known for luxury shopping and celebrity sightings.
Address:
Beverly Hills Sign: 1300-1398 Park Way, Beverly Hills, CA 90210
Rodeo Drive: Rodeo Drive
4:00 PM – Taco Truck Stop (Local Favorite)
For an authentic bite, skip the restaurants and head to a local taco truck. Try quesadillas with guacamole and spicy salsa for a flavorful snack.
6:00 PM – Sunset at Griffith Observatory
Arrive before sunset to enjoy panoramic views of LA and the Hollywood Sign. Traffic can be heavy and parking is limited—consider walking up from a nearby lot instead of waiting for the shuttle.
Address: 2800 E Observatory Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90027
9:00 PM – Check into Accommodation
Stay in central areas like Beverly Hills, Downtown LA, or Santa Monica to minimize commute times. Gardena and nearby suburbs are more affordable but farther from key attractions.
Day 2: Museums, Movie Landmarks & Cultural Hotspots
9:00 AM – Breakfast at Denny’s (or local cafe)
Fuel up before a full day of sightseeing.
10:30 AM – California Science Center
Located just south of Downtown, this museum is free and features exhibits on space, biology, and aviation. Don’t miss the real F-18 jet outside.
Address: 700 Exposition Park Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90037
Ticket: Free (Approximately $10 for some exhibition)
12:30 PM – Natural History Museum of LA
Next door to the Science Center, this museum features dinosaur fossils, prehistoric creatures, and interactive exhibits for all ages.
Address: 900 Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90007
Ticket: $18 for Adult
3:30 PM – Visit Dom’s House from Fast & Furious
Movie fans can stop by this iconic film location. Only the exterior is visible, but it’s a fun photo op.
Keep in mind that the house is now private property and surrounded by a gate, so you may not get a full view. Be respectful—do not attempt to enter the property or disturb the residents.
Address: 722 E Kensington Rd, Los Angeles, CA 90026
4:00 PM – Explore Little Tokyo
Home to Japanese restaurants, anime shops, and bakeries, Little Tokyo is livelier than SF’s Japan Town. A great spot to grab coffee or souvenirs.
Address: Los Angeles, CA
5:30 PM – Optional Stop: Koreatown
Browse shops or stock up at H Mart, though the neighborhood feels more commercial than cultural.
Address: Los Angeles, CA
6:30 PM – Korean BBQ Dinner at Bud Namu
Enjoy all-you-can-eat Korean BBQ (approx. $25) or individual plates (~$17). Generous portions and authentic flavors make this a great dinner option.
Address: 809 S Ardmore Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90005
8:00 PM – Stroll the Walk of Fame
Evening is a great time to explore Hollywood Boulevard. Snap photos with celebrity stars and enjoy the lively nighttime atmosphere.
Address: Hollywood Boulevard, Vine St, Los Angeles, CA 90028
9:30 PM – Return to Accommodation
Note: Some Airbnb hosts may have quiet hours or shower restrictions—check the house rules carefully.
Day 3: Hollywood Views & Return Drive
9:00 AM – Breakfast at Chick-fil-A
Start the morning with a quick, satisfying breakfast.
10:00 AM – Academy Museum of Motion Pictures
A must-visit for movie lovers, this museum features film props, costumes, and rooftop views of the Hollywood Sign. Japanese Oscar winners are also featured.
Address: LACMA West, 6067 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Ticket: $25
1:00 PM – Dessert at Magnolia Bakery
Located nearby, this nostalgic New York-origin bakery is famous for banana pudding and cupcakes.I came here almost 7 years ago. I didn’t remember exactly where the bakery was, but I stumbled upon it—and it was just the same as I remembered!
Address: 8389 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048
2:00 PM – Lake Hollywood Park
Get a closer view of the Hollywood Sign without the crowds. Perfect for photos, though the sign appears smaller up close than expected.
Address: 3160 Canyon Lake Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90068
5:00 PM – Begin Drive Back to the Bay Area
Leave early to avoid evening traffic. The drive back may take longer—plan for 6-7 hours including breaks.
5:30 PM – Dinner & Gas Stop
Grab fast food (like Subway) or try one last taco truck before hitting the road.
11:00 PM – Arrive Back in the Bay Area
Total drive time: approx. 6.5 hours with rest stops and dinner break. It depends on what time you leave Los Angeles and where you are in Los Angeles. If you are in south more than LAX, it will take another 1 hour.
✅ Travel Tips
- Accommodation: Choose a centrally located Airbnb or hotel to minimize drive time.
- Parking: Popular spots like Griffith Observatory and Hollywood can have limited parking—arrive early or prepare to walk.
- Food: Local food trucks offer affordable and authentic eats—great for a quick, flavorful stop.
- Navigation: Use Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates and alternate routes