Arvo/Night in LA

Question

We land at 2pm (coming from Mexico) in January and don’t have a flight out til 7am the next day so wondering what we could do in LA. We will have our 3 teen girls with us… been to LA years ago with them where they did Disney (avoided LA) but wondering if it’s worth a trip to the walk of fame etc. Don’t really want to spend our arvo/night at an airport motel so happy to stay elsewhere!

Answer

It sounds like you have a great opportunity to explore Los Angeles for a few hours! Given that you’ll be with your teens and have a limited time, I suggest focusing on some fun, iconic spots in LA that are easy to visit in the evening and offer a mix of entertainment, culture, and the LA vibe.

Here are some ideas for how you could spend your afternoon and evening in LA:

Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre - If your girls are into movies and celebrities, a quick visit to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and the TCL Chinese Theatre is a must. You can walk along Hollywood Boulevard, see the stars on the sidewalk, and take photos with the famous handprints at the theater. It's a quick and iconic stop for visitors, and it won’t take too long to explore.
Griffith Observatory and the Hollywood Sign - If you want a bit more of a scenic view, head to Griffith Park for a quick stop at Griffith Observatory. It offers great views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. You can also take a short walk or drive to a good spot for a photo of the iconic sign. The observatory is free, and the views are stunning, especially around sunset or twilight.
The Grove and Farmers Market - If you’re looking for shopping, food, and an easy-going LA vibe, visit The Grove. It's an outdoor mall with lots of dining options, and it's just a short distance from Hollywood. You can grab a quick dinner at one of the many restaurants and browse the stores. Right next door is the original Farmers Market, a perfect place for snacking and enjoying the local atmosphere.
Santa Monica Pier - For something a little more fun and laid-back, head out to Santa Monica. The pier is a classic LA experience with its ferris wheel, arcade games, and beach views. It’s a great place to walk around and take in the ocean breeze. There’s also a shopping area and plenty of restaurants if you want to grab dinner by the beach.
Venice Beach - If you enjoy the quirky, artistic side of LA, Venice Beach is another great option. You can stroll along the famous Ocean Front Walk, watch street performers, check out the skateboarders at the skate park, and grab a bite to eat in one of the local cafes. It has a fun, laid-back atmosphere, and it’s only a short drive from Santa Monica.

As for staying somewhere other than an airport motel, you might want to consider a hotel in or near Santa Monica or West Hollywood. Both areas are close to major attractions, offer good dining and entertainment options, and have a fun atmosphere. Since you’ll only be in LA for a short time, it’s better to stay somewhere with easy access to the spots you want to visit.

Whatever you decide, LA is a city with a lot to offer, and it should be a fun way to end your trip before heading to the airport for your flight!