1 Day in LA

Question

Trying to plan our stopover day in LA next April. We're 2 adults & 2 teens & probably too many cases to wander round town with.

We'll be flying in from Orlando to LAX, probably later in the day/evening. We need somewhere to sleep & then fly back home to Australia at 11pm the next day.

So for our day in LA, I'm thinking we'd enjoy the Warners Bros Studio (having done Universal & Disney in Orlando) & maybe a wander round by the Chinese Theatre & looking at some stars on the walkways or the hop on/hop off bus (not really interested in the celeb stalking tours).

So I'm wondering whether it would be a good idea to stay at an airport hotel, check out but leave our bags there & then make our way to Warner Bros (by whatever means I'm not sure). Then go back to the hotel, grab our bags & get the airport shuttle, if there is one.

To anyone who knows LA, does this sound feasible in what's probably an 8hr day, and what's the best way to get around? Uber?

Thanks 😊

Answer

Your plan for a one-day stopover in Los Angeles is very doable with some planning. Since you’re traveling with teens and luggage, staying at an airport hotel is a convenient choice. Most airport hotels offer luggage storage either before check-in or after check-out, so you won’t need to haul your suitcases around all day.

Here’s a breakdown of a feasible itinerary and transportation tips:

Airport hotel: Check into a hotel near LAX for convenience. After arriving late, get a good night’s rest and be ready for your sightseeing day. Many airport hotels provide complimentary airport shuttles, which will make arrival and departure smooth.
Luggage storage: Upon check-out, leave your bags at the hotel’s front desk or bell service. Most hotels accommodate this for a few hours at no extra cost.
Warner Bros Studio: The WB Studio tour is a top choice for your day. Depending on your arrival time and tour slot, you’ll need roughly 2.5–3 hours to enjoy the tour. Book tickets in advance for a confirmed time.
Getting around: LA traffic can be heavy, so Uber or Lyft is the most convenient way to get to the studio and other spots. Public transport is limited and slower for a tight schedule, especially with teens.
Hollywood attractions: After the studio, head to Hollywood Boulevard to see the Chinese Theatre, the Walk of Fame, and nearby shops. This can take 1–2 hours depending on your pace. A hop-on/hop-off bus can give a quick overview if you prefer not to walk extensively.
Returning to hotel and airport: After your Hollywood visit, take an Uber back to the hotel to pick up your bags, then use the hotel shuttle to LAX for your late evening flight.

Additional tips:

Start your day early to maximize sightseeing and avoid LA traffic peaks.
Wear comfortable shoes since there will be some walking, especially around Hollywood Boulevard.
Bring snacks and water for the day, as sightseeing can be spread out and restaurants may slow you down.
Consider travel time between LAX, WB Studio, and Hollywood. Traffic can be unpredictable, so plan at least 30–45 extra minutes for each leg.

In summary, your plan is realistic for an 8-hour day if you stick to two main activities—Warner Bros Studio and Hollywood Boulevard—with Uber/Lyft for transportation. Staying near the airport simplifies logistics with luggage and the late-night departure.

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