L.A. on a Budget: Beaches, Culture, and Fun

Experience the glitz and glamour of LA without breaking the budget!

21 June 2023

On a limited budget, a trip to Los Angeles can still be a great experience. Staying in affordable accommodations such as hostels or budget hotels, exploring free attractions like Griffith Park and the California Science Center, and trying out food trucks or grab-and-go meals can help keep costs down. With careful planning, it's possible to enjoy the city's sights and sounds without breaking the bank.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Beaches and Boogies

  • Check-in at The Dixie Hollywood Hotel, a stylish and budget-friendly accommodation.
  • Head to Venice Beach, where surfers and street performers come together to create a vibrant atmosphere. Don't forget to snap a picture of the famous Muscle Beach.
  • Stroll along the iconic Santa Monica Pier, grab a corn dog and ride the Ferris wheel to catch the sunset.
  • Go boogie boarding at Manhattan Beach, where locals hang out and enjoy the waves.
  • Indulge in fresh seafood at The Albright, a seafood restaurant located right on the pier.
Day 2

Culture and Cuisine

  • Explore the art galleries and museums at The Getty Center, where you can also take in the stunning city views.
  • Visit The Broad, a contemporary art museum that has an impressive collection of works by Jeff Koons, Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Yayoi Kusama.
  • Have lunch at Philippe the Original, a historic French-dip sandwich shop that has been around since 1908.
  • Take a stroll through the historic Olvera Street, a bustling marketplace that celebrates Mexican culture and heritage.
  • Try the world-famous tacos at Guisados, a taqueria that serves up delicious and affordable Mexican food.
Day 3

Hollywood Hills and Hipster Hangouts

  • Hike up to the Hollywood Sign for a picture-perfect view of the city.
  • Check out the celebrity homes in Beverly Hills, where you can see the mansions of stars like Jennifer Aniston and Justin Bieber.
  • Have brunch at Sqirl, a trendy farm-to-table spot known for its delicious toast and house-made preserves.
  • Visit The Last Bookstore, a massive bookstore that boasts a labyrinth-like layout and a quirky collection of books.
  • Enjoy a craft beer at Golden Road Brewing, a brewery that has a lively atmosphere and an impressive selection of beer.
Day 4

Theme Parks and Tacos

  • Spend the day at Universal Studios Hollywood, where you can go on thrilling rides and experience the magic of Hollywood.
  • Have lunch at LocoL, a fast-food joint that serves up affordable yet delicious tacos and burgers.
  • Relax at Echo Park Lake, a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city where you can rent a paddleboat and take in the scenic views.
  • Get your caffeine fix at Intelligentsia Coffee, a coffee shop that has a wide selection of single-origin coffees and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Have a farewell dinner at In-N-Out Burger, a cult-favorite fast-food chain that serves up simple yet delicious burgers and fries.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Los Angeles by plane is to fly into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) which is located approximately 16 miles from downtown Los Angeles. There are numerous airlines that operate direct flights from various cities around the world to LAX.

Car

Driving to Los Angeles is an option, as the city is well-connected with major highways and road networks. However, traffic in and around Los Angeles can be very congested so it is important to plan your route ahead of time.

Train

There is no direct train service to Los Angeles, but Amtrak provides rail service to Union Station in downtown Los Angeles from various cities across the United States. The Pacific Surfliner route is a popular option which provides scenic views along the coast of California.

Boat

Los Angeles is a major port city and there are several cruise lines that offer sailings to and from Los Angeles. The Port of Los Angeles is the largest port in the United States and is home to several cruise terminals, including the World Cruise Center which is used by many major cruise line companies.

Bus

Taking a bus to Los Angeles is a cost-effective option as there are several bus companies that provide service from various cities to Los Angeles. Greyhound is a popular choice with multiple bus stops within the city of Los Angeles.

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Explore the most iconic attractions in Los Angeles such as the Hollywood Walk of Fame, Santa Monica Pier and Griffith Observatory without breaking the bank. Stay at budget-friendly accommodations like hostels or find good deals on Airbnb. Save money and experience local food culture by trying street tacos, food trucks and local farmer's markets.