Welcome to Los Angeles, the city of dreams and movie magic! If you find yourself with limited time in this bustling metropolis, fear not, for we have curated the ultimate guide to experiencing the very best of LA. From museums that bring history to life to iconic Hollywood landmarks, and the vibrant beaches, your short stay will be packed with unforgettable experiences.

1. Studio Tour at Universal Studios hollywood

Okay we know you probably want to spend a whole day at this park, but if your short visit is pretty much wide open this provides you with what might be the most comprehensive behind-the-scenes tours in Hollywood. This 1-2 hour-long tour takes you on sets from iconic Hollywood thrillers like Jaws to modern alternative reality mega studios that created the action-packed scenes in Transformers and Fast and the Furious.

It's a glimpse into the magic of filmmaking that you won't soon forget.

Start your day with the Studio Tour, a behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of a Hollywood movie studio. You'll see real sets and sound stages, and even get a chance to go inside some of your favorite movies and TV shows. The line to this tour can get long so it is best to start this adventure early.

A Fast pass is a great investment for this park and will pay off during your visit. During the studio tour you will see some of the classic sets from your childhood, no matter what your age. Film sets from all-time American classics like Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho or Steven Spielberg’s Jaws, to the modern mega sets built for feature films like Jurassic Park or Fast and the Furious, the tour combines information with thrill.

2: LA Natural History Museum Becoming Los Angeles Exhibit

Why, because this is not only a top natural history museum in the nation, it also brings to life Local LA city history and development in its' "Becoming Los Angeles" Exhibit. From LAs’ early stages of becoming a major US city, to the defining moments in pop culture this exhibition is by far one of the most comprehensive tours of Los Angeles, providing a unique an in-depth look at the City of Angeles’ past.

LANHM is a great option for families and those who want to stick closer to the Downtown Los Angeles area. If you are more curious about the natural history of North America can also visit the La Brea tar Pits, located only about a 15-minute drive away. Here you will be able to learn about the natural habitats of the Fanna and Floral that existed in the Los Angeles Valley prior to Humans.

Prepare to be enthralled by the wonders of the past and the present all under one roof.

3. Crawl weho and See a show at the Wiskey a Go Go or the Viper Room

The sunset strip is synonymous with up-and-coming acts and these two small venues, just a block away from one another have a ton of history. The strip is also a great spot to hang out with friends at night and have a few drinks. It is for sure one of the liveliest places in LA. One of the City’s favorite music venues, The Viper Room is a legendary Sunset Strip venue known for its rock and alternative music. It has hosted both well-known bands and up-and-coming acts, and its intimate setting provides an immersive experience.

No visit to Los Angeles is complete without experiencing its vibrant music scene.

4. Hit Venice Beach (Dogtown)

No trip to Los Angeles would be complete without a couple of hours or a night out at Venice beach. I don’t care if some Angelenos think this is just a tourist trap, Venice beach is big time LA history. I mean come on. This is really where RHCP did it live from the boardwalk type of vibe. If you are a skater, you already know about Dogtown history, and you should probably find some wheels. Want to just kick it? That’s fine too.. go to the always lively Venice Whaler.

Go to Venice because it’s the quintessential California surfside vibe.

Just up the street Abbot Kiney blvd is a great choice for a bit of boutique beachy feel. This area is perfect to take on by foot and provides so many options. Whether you are looking for a great cocktail and night life or vibey secondhand markets you can find it here. This bustling/sleepy community never ceases to amaze.

The laid-back beach culture that Los Angeles is renowned for.

Top off the day by visiting one of LA’s greatest roof top restaurant-bar, High Rooftop Lounge, at Erwin Hotel. Reasonably priced and well worth the time you will capture views of the Hollywood sign, Santa Monica Mountains with 360-degree views of Los Angeles. With a great selection of appetizers, drinks and entrees make sure High Rooftop Lounge is part of your Venice Beach experience. Note: I cannot be sure if there is a dress code, but I am assuming beach attire might not be acceptable.

5. Tour the Getty Villa

Nothing says Hollywood like over the top extravagance.

Here you will witness the incredible aspirations of Hollywood's Rich and famous and see just how good it could be if you rise to the lime life. The tour will take you no more than two hours and afterwards you are set up for a perfect day in Malibu to enjoy the waves or take a hike in the nearby Temescal, Topanga or Malibu Canyons. If you have a car this iconic stretch of the PCH is something you won’t want to miss. On your way back into town stop by one of the many bars and restaurants along the way. Gladstones is a real treat for everyone located right on the beach only a short drive from Santa Monica.

The natural beauty that surrounds the city.

6. See a show or tour Grauman's Chinese Theatre.

Why? Because this place embodies Hollywood history and literally memorialized preforming arts throughout the decades. You really have so many options when it comes to LA Live Entertainment in Los Angeles. I’m sure you know there is way more than the Grauman’s theater. That said, somehow, as a First Time Visitor this just feels like where you should start.

Maybe it’s the excitement that comes from of being able to stand in the same spot of your favorite star when they put their shoeprints or handprints down on the wet concrete.? Maybe it's something it’s the excitement of the Hollywood walk of fame? Either way you will need to stop by.

A simple stroll by the theater is enough to ignite your fascination with the rich cinematic heritage of LA.

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