You’re only young once was my mindset when I traded my first week of exams for a mid-week getaway to Los Angeles, California. This was my first time to L.A, not to mention, California, so I was determined to make the most of my few days in this new city.

Hollywood Boulevard

Wondering what the equivalent of Times Square is on the West Coast? It’s Hollywood Boulevard. This street is full of good shopping, tourist attractions, museums, and of course, the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame.

Griffith Observatory

The best time to go to the Griffith Observatory is at night. Although the Hollywood Sign is hard to see in the dark, the view of the city at night is incredible.

Beverly Hills & Melrose District

As a Merchandising major, browsing the chic boutiques of L.A. was a must. I headed to Melrose Avenue and the upscale shopping street of Rodeo Drive for this reason. I don’t think I will ever feel as fabulous as I did when I told my Uber to drop me off at the Tiffany’s on Rodeo Drive.

Grand Central Market

The food gods blessed me with this giant food hall within walking distance of my hotel in downtown L.A. From Eggslut, PBJ.LA, and too many taco stands, I could’ve eaten here for every meal on all four days.

The Last Bookstore

This is California’s largest new and used book and record store, which opened in 2005. It now has over 250,000 books and allows customers to buy, sell or trade items. Above the bookstore is The Labyrinth, which is home to the Spring Art Collective gallery shops, where local artists make and sell their artwork.

Venice Beach

I highly recommend renting a bike for $6 and biking along the Pacific Ocean to the Santa Monica Pier. The best way to end my trip was seeing the Pacific Ocean for the first time. Not to mention, biking a few miles had me ready to sleep on my red eye flight home.

Street Art

My favorite part about walking the streets of Los Angeles was all the street murals and art I saw. Talk about Instagram worthy photo opportunities!

If I Had More Time…

I would’ve visited Echo Park and hiked the Hollywood Sign. Located in the eastside neighborhood and close to the Dodger Stadium, Echo Park features indie music venues, vegan cafes and paddle boarding. The Hollywood Sign includes several different hiking trails. On the longest hike, it’s possible to stand above the sign to overlook the entire city and see a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean.

Southern California? I got it covered. Next stop on my list? Northern California, here I come!