Los Angeles Planning & Tips

Getting There and Around
Although it's not exactly true that "nobody walks in L.A." it's also true that most people drive more than they walk; so coming here without renting a car would not be advisable, unless you want to spend the whole time on the beach or confined to a single neighborhood. That said, once the car gets you to your destination, you'll probably find a lot of street parking as well as parking garages, and, in most parts of the city, very walkable streets with broad sidewalks. So bring your walking shoes.

While visitors to L.A. may be surprised to know that the city has any public transportation, and a pretty extensive network of busses and subways at that, your vacation is probably not a good time to start navigating that system. Better to rent a car, if possible.

The Art of Smart Timing
Another thing that makes Los Angeles so accessible to families is that it's easy to get to (most airlines fly into LAX) and you can visit year-round. Yes, there are four seasons in Los Angeles, but they bring only subtle changes in climate. Families determined to get a lot of sunshine might want to avoid travel between January and March, the city's rainy season, which, depending on the year can either bring relentless downpours or no rain at all. Other times of year, the sun will most definitely shine, a little hotter in late summer, and accompanied by gentle breezes in the spring and fall months. Home to the Rose Bowl and Tournament of Roses parade, it's also a great place for family-friendly New Year's celebrations.

Travel Tips
Los Angeles is one of those cities you can live in your whole life and still not fully know, so for families here for just a week or two, the options to explore are endless. Just north of Santa Monica is Topanga Canyon, a place that will make your family forget you are anywhere near a city. With all sorts of hiking trails, from flat walks to challenging climbs, Topanga will give you a feel for the landscape L.A. had before so much of it was paved over, and will reward serious hikers with gorgeous ocean views. Another good option for families is to explore the beach side towns south of Santa Monica, from Venice to Marina del Rey, Playa del Rey, Manhattan Beach and Redondo Beach. Some people say that life gets more casual the further south you go, and all of these towns will offer wide friendly beaches and a taste of the local surf and sun lifestyle.

Visitor Bureau
Los Angeles Convention & Visitors Bureau
Santa Monica Convention & Visitors Bureau