What to do/see during an afternoon stay in LA

Question

Hi All - my wife and I are Brits and we're flying into LAX from a few days in Vegas at noon on Friday 10 Oct, for an overnight stay in the Delphi Hotel, before joining a cruise from San Pedro the foillowing morning. We'll be getting a cab from LAX to our hotel, and, once we've checked in, would like to fit in some sightseeing that afternoon. Sadly it seems most of the half day tours leave mid/late morning, so any suggestions gratefully received.

Answer

Arriving at LAX around noon and checking into the Delphi Hotel gives you roughly a few hours in the afternoon to explore Los Angeles. Since your time is limited, focusing on nearby highlights and easy-to-access experiences is ideal.

Here are some options for sightseeing and activities that fit a half-day schedule:

Santa Monica Pier & Beach: About 30–40 minutes by car from your hotel, you can enjoy a stroll along the pier, take in the ocean views, and grab a quick snack or coffee. The nearby Third Street Promenade is also good for a short walk and some light shopping.
Venice Beach Boardwalk: Just a short drive from Santa Monica, Venice offers a lively scene with street performers, murals, and shops. Walking along the boardwalk gives a quintessential LA experience without needing a full tour.
Downtown LA / The Broad Museum: If you prefer a more cultural experience, head downtown. The Broad is free but requires a reservation; nearby you can also see the Walt Disney Concert Hall and grab a coffee in the Arts District.
Hollywood Boulevard & TCL Chinese Theatre: A quick stop to see the Walk of Fame and the theatre’s handprints. You can also drive by the Dolby Theatre. Note that this area can be crowded, so plan accordingly.
Griffith Observatory / Griffith Park: If traffic allows, head to the Griffith Observatory for panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. You can spend 30–60 minutes enjoying the views and exhibits.

Other practical tips for your short afternoon:

Consider using ride-share services to maximize time instead of walking long distances between attractions.
Traffic in LA can be unpredictable—plan only one or two main stops to avoid stress.
Grab an early dinner or snack at a local favorite near your sightseeing spot to make the most of your time.

Overall, Santa Monica and Venice offer the most relaxed, scenic, and iconic LA experience in an afternoon, while downtown or Hollywood provide a more cultural or classic Hollywood vibe. Choose based on whether you prefer outdoor views or city landmarks.

What to do/see during an afternoon stay in LA

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