48 Hours in Los Angeles

Forget the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Star Tours — we've put together a must-do, two-day LA itinerary for anyone who wants a true insider's look at the City of Angels.

By: Erica Reitman

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Day One: El Matador State Beach

Hop in your car and take an early morning trek to El Matador State Beach in Malibu. The views are jaw-droppingly gorgeous, with unique rock formations all along the beachfront, set against the backdrop of the Pacific Ocean. You might even run into a film crew or a photo shoot while you're there. Just beware of the rickety wooden staircase you'll need to descend to make it down to the beach. After visiting the beach, you can stop at Malibu Farm Pier Cafe for breakfast, and grab some coffee and a bite to eat overlooking the ocean.

Day One: Shopping In Venice

On your way back from "the 'Bu," stop in Venice to check out this eclectic, creative beach community. Park along Abbott Kinney Boulevard, and walk up and down the street to see all sorts of unique stores. Before you shop 'til you drop, stop for lunch at The Butcher's Daughter for a delicious meal and the stylish, boho-chic decor.

Day One: Griffith Observatory

If you're over 30, you might recognize the Griffith Observatory from Paula Abdul's "Rush, Rush" music video. But this historic LA landmark is both a working planetarium, as well as the spot to see some of the most sweeping views of the entire city. Even if you have no interest in the planetarium, it's still worth driving up into the hills of Los Feliz to snap some pics and take in the whole city from up above.

Day One: Stahl House Tour

For architecture and design lovers, a tour of the midcentury modern Stahl House will be the highlight of your trip. This iconic home, also known as Case Study House No. 22, was designed by architect Pierre Koenig and has appeared in countless movies, photographs and videos. The home was a part of the Case Study House experiment, which commissioned leading architects of the day to build energy-efficient, reasonably priced model homes for the typical American family. The house is a stunning representation of midcentury modern architecture, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows and many other unique features. It's perched high above the city in the Hollywood Hills.

Day One: Movie at the Cinerama Dome

You can't come to Los Angeles without trying everyone in LA's favorite fast food: In-N-Out Burger. Stop by the Hollywood location and grab a quick bite to eat. (Order a Double-Double with "Animal Style" fries.) After dinner, go see a movie at the historic landmark Cinerama Dome. The theater seats more than 800 people, and because of its unique dome design, it allows for a completely immersive movie-watching experience. (Try to catch an IMAX movie there if you can.)

Day Two: Downtown Graffiti Tour

Start off your second day with a graffiti and mural walking tour in LA's bustling downtown area. You'll get an up close and personal introduction to the city's Arts District neighborhood and see some amazing street art along the way.

Day Two: Grand Central Market

For lunch, head over to the city's most upscale food court: Grand Central Market. If you want to avoid the near-constant lines at Egg Slut (which does happen to have one of the most delicious egg sandwiches you will ever encounter), there are more options including Jewish comfort food at Wexler's Deli, epic sandwiches at Belcampo Meat Co., gourmet PB&Js at PBJ.LA or mouth-watering ramen at Ramen Hood. And that's just the tip of the iceberg. There's so much delicious food, you should plan to hit up a bunch of different vendors, then share everything with your group.

Day Two: The Broad

While you're still downtown, you must visit LA's newest and most avant-garde art museum, The Broad. Plan ahead and get your tickets well before your trip. Even though the tickets are free, they disappear months in advance. (Though they do also release same-day tickets that you might be lucky enough to snatch up.) Pro Tip: Download the museum's app, then go on your own fun, self-guided tour. The museum features a collection of some of the most prominent post-war and contemporary pieces of art, as well as high-profile rotating exhibitions.

Day Two: Raffi's Place in Glendale

If Persian/Mediterranean/Armenian food is your thing, Raffi's Place in Glendale is a must-visit spot. They don't take reservations (except for large groups), but trust us — it's always worth the wait. It's a great choice for family-style group meals and also offers plenty of vegetarian options. After dinner, stop by the famous Porto's Bakery up the street for dessert. The guava-cheese strudel is life-changing.

Day Two: Highland Park Bowl

After dinner and dessert in Glendale hit up LA's oldest (and now hippest) bowling alley, Highland Park Bowl. Beautifully renovated several years ago, the space feels much more like a swank lounge than a typical bowling alley. Once you get there, you'll find comfy leather chesterfield sofas, craft cocktails, delicious snacks and mood lighting. If you're still up for some action after you finish your game, walk up to the street and head to a hidden-gem speakeasy called Good Housekeeping. It's located in an alley behind Cafe Birdie, which is another favorite hipster restaurant in the neighborhood.

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Los Angeles

48 Hours in Los Angeles

Related To:

Shop This Look

Day One: El Matador State Beach

Day One: Shopping In Venice

Day One: Griffith Observatory

Day One: Stahl House Tour

Day One: Movie at the Cinerama Dome

Day Two: Downtown Graffiti Tour

Day Two: Grand Central Market

Day Two: The Broad

Day Two: Raffi's Place in Glendale

Day Two: Highland Park Bowl

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