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Santa Monica Pier

Check out the food trucks on the beach side! They have some amazing eats, plus it's usually more affordable than the sit-down restaurants on the Pier.

I think bringing cash is a good idea – some vendors only take cash and you won't want to miss out on some tasty treats!
If you're planning on using the rides, buy the wristband in advance online. It’s a better deal and you’ll skip the line on busy days, which can save you some time!
Don't forget to explore the beach! The sand is wonderful for a leisurely stroll and the ocean view is a perfect backdrop for your photos.
Downtown Santa Monica
I suggest visiting on a weekday if you can. The weekend crowds can be overwhelming, especially around the pier. I went on a Tuesday and it was so much more enjoyable!

I highly recommend checking out the local street art while wandering around. Some of it is just around the corners and you can snap unique photos without having to pay for attractions

Plan and stick around for the Wednesday farmers’ market on Arizona Avenue. There are tons of local produce and really affordable snacks - I even got some fresh pastries that were to die for.

If you're looking to save some bucks, grab a coffee at one of the local cafes instead of over at Starbucks. I found a cute little spot named Demitasse that had great prices and awesome brews!
Hollywood & Highland

Check out the views from the top of the shopping center! It's a great spot for selfies with the Hollywood sign in the background. Don't forget to bring your camera!

If you're planning to grab a bite, I suggest looking for local food trucks nearby. They usually have better prices and tastier food than the eateries in the center.

Don't waste your money on the fancy parking—it can be expensive! Instead, use the free parking lot up on Sunset Boulevard and walk down! Saved me a lot!
Check the showtimes for the Dolby Theatre if you're interested in catching a tour. The tours usually sell out fast, and it can be a bummer if you miss out
Queen Mary

Definitely check out the engine room if you're into unique architecture. It's super interesting and often overlooked by visitors. Just be prepared for some chilly temps down there!

I recommend booking tickets online ahead of time. There was a line when I went, but I managed to skip it since I reserved my ticket the day before.

You might wanna take the self-guided tour. I spent an hour on the audio guide but honestly I could’ve explored more on my own. Just grab a map and go at your own pace.

Explore the decks during sunset! Trust me, the views are absolutely amazing and perfect for pictures. Just don't forget your jacket – it gets breezy by the water.
Original Farmers Market

Bring cash! Some vendors don’t accept cards, and you don’t want to miss out on a tasty treat because you can’t pay for it.

Definitely explore the different booths before making decisions. You wouldn't want to miss out on some hidden gems—I found a great taco stand near the end!

If you’re looking to save some cash, share a few dishes with friends. Portions can be pretty big, and trust me, you want to taste a bit of everything!

I suggest getting there by 10 AM to avoid the crowds and really enjoy the vibe without feeling rushed. Plus, you’ll find the best selection of fresh produce early on.
Venice Canals

Check the weather before you go! I didn't and ended up getting caught in a weird drizzle. It dampened things a bit, so bringing a small light rain jacket is a good idea.

Bring your own snacks instead of buying food at the expensive local shops. I packed a little picnic, which made my break more enjoyable and saved a few bucks.

Don't miss the footbridge at the Grand Canal! Each side has great photo ops. I was surprised by how pretty it looked, perfect for a quick snap!

I suggest visiting the canals on a weekday morning around 9 AM to beat the crowds. It was way more peaceful and I got some amazing pics without too many people in the shot
Hollywood Sign

I recommend checking the weather the day before. It can be foggy or cloudy, totally ruining the view. You want that perfect LA sunshine mood!

I suggest taking the Brush Canyon Trail for a nice hike to the sign. The views of LA are beautiful and it's not as tough as it sounds!

If you're on a budget, get an Uber to the closest drop-off point instead of paying for parking. Parking spots fill up fast, and you'll waste time looking for a spot.

Seriously, if you can swing it, go in the early morning around 8 AM. The sunrise views are stunning and it's way less crowded than later in the day!
Greystone Mansion

I recommend bringing a small picnic. The gardens are beautiful and having a snack outside really added to my experience. Just be mindful of the rules, though.

I suggest checking their schedule for any special events before you go. I stumbled upon a lovely garden tour that made my visit even more enjoyable!

My advice is to wear comfy shoes. The grounds are huge and there's a lot to walk around. I was pretty sore after all the exploring!

If you want to avoid crowds, try to visit right when they open at 10 AM. I went on a Saturday, and it got packed pretty quickly!
The Gamble House

After the tour, swing by the nearby Art Center College of Design. It's a neat spot, and you can explore some cool galleries for free!

I recommend booking your tour in advance, especially on weekends. The house gets really busy, and you don't want to miss out because it sells out!
If you're into photography, try visiting around 3 PM; the late afternoon light really brings out the details of the architecture. Bring your camera!
Bradbury Building

Try to visit around 11 AM when it's less crowded. I found this time perfect for enjoying the stunning architecture without being rushed by other visitors.

Consider combining your visit with nearby attractions like The Last Bookstore or the Historic Core, so you can make the most of your trip without extra travel time.
Check the building's opening hours before you go. I showed up a bit late thinking it would be open longer, and I had to rush through my visit