LA Trip Planning

Question

Hello,

I am planning a trip to LA to attend a show at the Saban Media Center, and getting overwhelmed trying to figure out where to stay. We would also like to do a few things like visit a beach, go to Universal Studios and check out Griffith observatory, but other than that it would be ideal to stay in a location where we can just leave the hotel and walk around and explore. It seems like LA is very spread out so I'm not sure if that's possible near any of the locations we want to visit. It will be me (44F) along with my 15 year-old son, so I'd like a more family oriented area and not concerned with nightlife. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated?

Also - would you recommend renting a car rather than ubering? I'm a little nervous about driving around in a big city that I'm not familiar with.

Answer

It sounds like you're planning an exciting trip to Los Angeles with a mix of shows, attractions, and sightseeing. LA can definitely be overwhelming, especially because of its size and the variety of things to do. But don't worry—there are areas that offer easy access to the places you want to visit while also providing a family-friendly atmosphere. Let’s break down your questions and suggestions:

Where to Stay: Since you want to explore, visit a beach, go to Universal Studios, and check out the Griffith Observatory, the key is to pick an area that’s centrally located and convenient for both sightseeing and relaxing. Here are a few areas you might consider:

Hollywood: Hollywood is a good base for tourists, with attractions like the Hollywood Walk of Fame, TCL Chinese Theatre, and the Hollywood Sign nearby. It’s also close to Griffith Observatory and Universal Studios. The area has plenty of hotels, restaurants, and shops, so you can easily walk around and explore. It’s not far from the beach either (about 30-40 minutes by car).
Santa Monica: If you’re hoping for a beach experience, Santa Monica is a great choice. It’s family-friendly, has a beautiful beach, and is very walkable, with shopping, dining, and entertainment options all around. It’s about a 30-minute drive to Universal Studios and 40 minutes to Griffith Observatory, but you’ll have the beach right at your doorstep.
West Hollywood (WeHo): West Hollywood offers a more laid-back vibe compared to Hollywood itself. It's walkable, trendy, and family-friendly, with lots of parks, shops, and good restaurants. You’ll also be close to the Saban Media Center. However, it’s a little further from the beach and Griffith Observatory compared to Hollywood, but still very central.
Beverly Hills: For a slightly more upscale and family-oriented area, Beverly Hills could be a good option. It's walkable with beautiful shopping streets like Rodeo Drive and easy access to parks and restaurants. It's centrally located for the things you want to do, though it's not as close to the beach as Santa Monica.

Getting Around: LA is indeed spread out, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the thought of driving in a large city. Here’s a breakdown of how to get around:

Renting a Car: Renting a car gives you flexibility, but it can be a little stressful if you’re not familiar with LA traffic. However, it might be the best option if you plan to visit various attractions that are spread out, like Universal Studios, Griffith Observatory, and a few different beaches. Parking in some areas, like Hollywood or Santa Monica, can be tricky and expensive, though, so it’s good to plan ahead.
Using Uber/Lyft: If you’re not comfortable driving, using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft is a great alternative. LA traffic can be challenging, but these services can take you directly to the places you want to visit without the stress of navigating or parking. Plus, you can use them for short trips, like getting to and from the Saban Media Center, or for a day trip to the beach. Just keep in mind that during rush hours, rideshare prices can surge.
Public Transportation: LA’s public transportation system isn’t as extensive as in other cities, but there are options like the Metro that can get you to major attractions like Hollywood and downtown LA. It’s a more affordable option but may not always be the fastest or most convenient for tourists.

Recommendation: If you're concerned about driving, using Uber/Lyft for most of your trips, especially to places like Universal Studios or Griffith Observatory, might be a good balance. However, if you plan to visit a variety of places, including the beach, renting a car might give you the flexibility you need. Just be mindful of parking fees and traffic.

Overall, LA has a lot to offer, and there are plenty of areas where you can stay and explore on foot. Whether you choose to rent a car or use Uber, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in the city and have a memorable trip with your son!

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