The best of LA in a day, from Venice Beach to Beverly Hills
Begin with a drive to Venice Beach. Once a seaside resort town, this surfer’s paradise is crisscrossed with canals and the center of counterculture in LA. Stroll the Venice Boardwalk to enjoy its street performers and vendors as we learn about the birth of skateboarding culture.
See “Baywatch” headquarters and Muscle Beach. Then head north to Santa Monica. On the iconic Santa Monica Pier, you’ll be dazzled by the carnival sounds and the famous hippodrome. Don’t forget to snap a photo at the sign marking the end of Historic Route 66.
Back in LA, enjoy a leisurely lunch at the Original Farmers Market. For the second half of our journey, we’ll cruise by La Cienega’s Restaurant Row and see some of the world’s most famous restaurants, like The Stinking Rose. You’ll also pass by legendary institutions like the Saban Theater and the landmarks of the Miracle Mile. You can stand inside the “Urban Lights” exhibit at LA County’s Museum of Art (LACMA) and see prehistoric wonders in the park at La Brea Tar Pits.
As we make our way into Hollywood, we’ll drive by Jim Henson Studios, the Church of Scientology, Capitol Records, and the Hollywood Sign. Count the stars on the Walk of Fame, and fit your hands and feet into the impressions of legendary actors in front of Grauman’s Chinese Theater. Don’t forget to strike a pose as we walk up for our grand entrance at the Dolby Theater, where the Oscars are held.
Next, cruise down Sunset Boulevard as your guide points out landmarks like Whisky A Go Go and the House of Blues and shares about the rock stars who’ve played here.
Finally, admire the glamorous palm-tree-lined streets of Beverly Hills. You’ll tour the grounds of Greystone Manor, a billion-dollar estate. We’ll also drive by the Playboy Mansion and the homes of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Lucille Ball, Marilyn Monroe, Orlando Bloom, and many more. Then go out on a high note at Rodeo Drive, where you can stock up on luxury before our relaxing ride back to Westside Pavilion and the close of your incredible LA Highlights Tour.