with all the options in Southern California, planning can do nothing short of making your head spin when trying to put together a productive, fun and balanced itinerary of things to do in a matter of 4 days.
The main thing to consider is distance. Distances are great and traffic is a lot. Planning your days wisely can make the whole experience fun without the travel time frustrations.
Where to stay:
The London – this is a hidden gem of a hotel in my opinion. It is located a short distance to many attractions in the West Hollywood area with great amenities of its own. This includes a lovely pool with cabanas on the rooftop, a large human size chess board in a cute courtyard and comfy, spacious rooms.
Shopping:
Rodeo Drive – This is a great location to spend an afternoon. There are great little eating places or places to stop for a coffee. There are also nice luxury shops to engage in a bit of retail therapy or just window shop. Because the shops and outdoors it is a nice place to take a walk. You may even get a glimpse at a few celebrities around the area.
Beverly Center – This is your one stop indoor shopping experience that has all of the big box shops as well as some places to grab a quick bite. If you are looking for a one stop shopping experience, this place has it under one roof.
3rd Street Promenade– Here is a fun place that my children loved. The whole family was able to get a bit of what they wanted. There is beach and sand, and Pier with rides and carnival games, there are restaurants facing the lovely ocean and there is shopping. You can easily spend your whole day in this area. My children loved spending time here.
Attractions/ sites:
Santa Monica Pier– This is a fun place to get a full carnival experience, some California sun and some beautiful sand and ocean. It is a great way to spend an afternoon.
Universal Studios – This is such a fun place to go with children. You get to experience movie sets and rides that place you inside of the action. My kids loved it here but make sure you give yourself a full day for this as it take time to see all the attractions.
Warner Brothers Studio Tours – Great way to see the inside of Warner Brother studios and their creations. This is an experience that is fun and only takes a couple of hours out of your day. With teens and younger children in tow, this was an adventure everyone enjoyed. Especially, if you have family members interested in the shows they are producing. They have an entire coffee shop modeled after the show, ‘Friends’, for you to enjoy some coffee and lunch after your tour.
Food:
Catch– For good food, fun vibe and possible celebrity sightings, this is the restaurant to go to.. if you can get a table.
Wallys– Super cool and casual restaurant/ store with unique and curated wines, cheeses and other fun food products.
Il Pastaio – Simply said… good italian food. If you get a table outside, you can people watch the Beverly Hill crowd.
Central Perk Cafe – Located inside the Warner Brothers Studios.
Destination Defined... 