24 Hours in Los Angeles: How to Experience the City Like a Pro?

Los Angeles is a Californian city that has something for everyone—world-famous attractions, stunning viewing spots, and plenty of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

A Guide To 24 Hours in Los Angeles

If you’ve only got 24 Hours in Los Angeles to explore this enormous city, having a solid plan will help you make the most of your time.

This guide lays out the best way to experience LA like a pro, hitting all the highlights without feeling rushed.

7:00 AM – Sunrise at Griffith Observatory

Kick off your day at Griffith Observatory, one of LA’s most breathtaking viewing spots. Arriving early lets you soak in the sunrise with fewer crowds while taking in sweeping views of the city skyline—from the Hollywood Sign to Downtown L.A. and even the Pacific Ocean on a clear day.

Insider Tip: For a more active start, take the Mount Hollywood Trail. This 2.5-mile round-trip hike offers some of the best panoramic viewing spots, especially in the morning light. Look for seasonal wildflowers, and remember that authorized trails are open from sunrise to sunset.

8:30 AM – Breakfast at République

After your morning hike, refuel at République, a casual family-owned spot set in a stunning 1920s building.

Whether you’re craving breakfast burritos, flavorful shakshuka, or a perfectly brewed latte at this cafe for breakfast, this place delivers. The airy space, with its high ceilings and communal tables, creates a warm and inviting dining experience.

Insider Tip: Mornings can get busy, so reservations are a good idea. If you’re short on time, swing by the bakery counter for a quick grab-and-go pastry and coffee.

10:00 AM – Explore the Arts District

Head to Downtown L.A.’s Arts District, where old warehouses have become a creative hotspot filled with street art, art galleries, and trendy cafés.

Stroll past bold murals, stop by contemporary art spaces like Hauser & Wirth with its exceptional collection, and soak in the neighborhood’s cultured vibe.

Insider Tip: If you love vintage shopping, check out Row DTLA for unique boutique finds. The area also hosts pop-up events and design exhibits, so watch for something unexpected!

11:30 AM – Visit The Broad Museum

Step into a collection of art await at The Broad, where you’ll find striking works by artists such as Jeff Koons, Yayoi Kusama, and Jean-Michel Basquiat.

The museum’s unique “veil-and-vault” architecture is a visual treat even before you walk inside this Museum of Art.

Insider Tip: General admission is free, but tickets go fast—reserve in advance to avoid long waits. If you want to experience Yayoi Kusama’s Infinity Mirror Rooms, you’ll need a separate timed ticket, so book early to secure your spot!

12:30 PM – Lunch at Grand Central Market

Just a short stroll from The Broad, Grand Central Market is a must-visit for food lovers seeking fair-style food options.

This historic food hall has been a staple in the entire city since 1917, offering diverse dinner options under one roof.

Whether you’re craving Eggslut’s famous egg sandwiches, authentic tacos from Tacos Tumbras a Tomas, or something entirely different, there’s no shortage of delicious entertainment options in Los Angeles.

Insider Tip: Seating fills up fast during peak hours, so check out the market’s upper level for extra services. For a refreshing pick-me-up, grab a cold-pressed juice from one of the vendors before heading to your next stop.

2:00 PM – Test Your Skills at 60out Escape Rooms

Take your adventure to the next level at 60out Escape Rooms. It is one of the top-tier escape rooms in Los Angeles

With multiple locations across the Californian city, you can visit the Downtown L.A. spot for a convenient mid-day challenge or head to another branch with a theme that excites you.

Each location offers a variety of immersive, story-driven challenges, from high-stakes heists to spine-tingling mysteries, designed to test your problem-solving skills in a fun and exciting way.

Insider Tip: Weekends can book up fast, so reserve your spot in advance. Whether tackling the puzzles with friends or teaming up with fellow escape room fans, working together makes the experience even more thrilling.

3:30 PM – Santa Monica Pier & Beach Walk

Head west to the famous Santa Monica Pier, where you can soak in beach vibes, ride the iconic Pacific Wheel—the world’s only solar-powered Ferris wheel—and enjoy classic outdoor markets.

Street performers, food stalls, and arcade games add to the lively atmosphere, making it a great casual spot to experience LA’s beach culture.

Insider Tip: For a more active adventure, rent a bike and stroll along the Marvin Braude Bike Trail, which runs along the coast with stunning Santa Monica Mountains views. If you want something quieter, Palisades Park offers peaceful walking paths and breathtaking seaside scenery.

5:30 PM – Sunset at Venice Canals

Step away from the busy city roads of Venice Beach and take a relaxing stroll through the Venice Canals. Inspired by the waterways of Venice, Italy, this quiet neighborhood features charming footbridges, scenic walkways, and beautiful homes lining the water.

It’s the perfect spot to slow down and soak in a different experiences when experiencing 24 Hours in Los Angeles city.

Insider Tip: Arrive just before sunset for the best lighting—it’s a great time for photos, and the golden glow makes the canals even more magical.

7:00 PM – Dinner at Gjelina

End your day with a meal at Gjelina, a Venice hotspot known for its seasonal, farm-to-table dinner options. If you’re craving wood-fired pizza, roasted vegetables, or fresh seafood, you got it!

Every dish is crafted with bold flavors and high-quality ingredients. The cozy, rustic-chic setting adds to the experience, making it a favorite casual spot among locals and visitors.

Insider Tip: Reservations fill up fast, so book ahead. If you can’t get a table, Gjelina Take Away (GTA) next door serves many of the same signature dishes for a laid-back, on-the-go option suits.

10:00 PM – Late-Night Drive Down Mulholland

Cap off your day with an epic road trip along Mulholland Drive, one of LA’s most iconic road trips. Winding through the Santa Monica Mountains, this route offers sweeping views of the city skyline illuminated below.

With minimal traffic at this hour, it’s a peaceful and almost cinematic way to take in the beauty of LA before calling it a night.

Insider Tip: Stop at the Hollywood Bowl Overlook for an unbeatable panoramic view of the city glowing under the stars. Just be cautious—Mulholland Drive can be a bit windy, so take your time and enjoy the ride safely.

11:00 PM – Rooftop Drinks at Perch

Wrap up your LA adventure with a drink at Perch, a rooftop lounge combining Parisian charm and stunning city skyline views. Perched atop a historic building, it offers a cozy yet upscale atmosphere with fire pits, lush Chinese garden vibes, and live music on select nights at this concert venue.

The ambiance makes it the perfect spot to unwind, whether you’re sipping on a craft cocktail, a glass of wine, or a local beer. Pair your drink with small bites like truffle fries or a charcuterie board while taking in the twinkling skyline.

Insider Tip: The outdoor terrace offers the best viewing spots but fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early or make a reservation to snag a prime spot. Check out the upstairs lounge for a livelier vibe, where DJs keep the energy going late into the night.

Midnight – 24-Hour Taco Stop

No trip to LA is complete without a late-night taco stop, and Leo’s Taco Truck is the place to go.

Known for its legendary al pastor tacos, this local hotspot serves perfectly marinated pork carved straight from the spit and topped with fresh pineapple.

This is fair-style food options at its finest if you want to wrap up the night out or are craving a midnight snack.

Insider Tip: The line moves fast, but don’t just stop at one taco—grab a few extra, like carne asada or chorizo, because one bite won’t be enough.

1:00 AM – Rest Like a Star (Because You Earned It!)

After a whirlwind 24 hours, it’s time to unwind like an A-lister. Whether you’re sinking into a luxurious bed at the Beverly Hills Hotel, resting in a chic West Hollywood boutique stay, or kicking back in an Airbnb with a killer rooftop view, you’ve conquered this Californian city in a day.

Insider Tip: Still too hyped to sleep? Pour yourself a nightcap, soak in the last few twinkling city lights, and scroll through your epic photos. One thing’s for sure—this won’t be your last LA adventure.

That’s a Wrap: Your LA Blockbuster Day

Spending 24 hours in Los Angeles is like starring in your fast-paced adventure film—one packed with jaw-dropping viewing spots, unforgettable bites, and moments that make you pause and say, Wow, this enormous city really has it all.

But, of course, there’s always more to discover. Maybe next time, you’ll dive into the city’s legendary concert venues like Walt Disney Concert Hall, explore hidden speakeasies, or detour into LA’s eclectic neighborhoods like Culver City or East L.A.

One thing’s for sure: a single day in LA is never enough—but it’s the perfect start!

Frequently Asked Questions