What’s the longest layover you’ve ever had? When I hopscotched from Fiji to Seoul, I had about 36 hours to spend in Los Angeles. I always recommend planning for a day or so when you have a layover in L.A. —not only does it give you a chance to explore the city, but it also minimizes stress trying to rush across the massive airport. If you really want to make the most of your time in L.A. consider taking a comprehensive city tour. These are perfect for over 60 travel and solo, first-time travelers.
Arrange a City Tour From Your Hotel
Many tours can be purchased right from airport hotels! Tour buses pick up out front and take you right back to your cozy accommodation when it’s over. It’s super convenient, especially for the solo traveler, and there’s always something new to see (I’ve probably taken the same tour over six times now!). Once you’re aboard the bus, you’re all set to drive past some of L.A.’s most famous landmarks. Passengers get to see the best the city has to offer, all from a comfy tour bus seat. Highlights include:
- Hollywood—Hollywood is home to all kinds of recognizable landmarks. You’ll get to gaze at the magnificent Hollywood sign and search for your favorite celebrities’ stars on the Walk of Fame.
- Sunset Strip—Feel like a rich socialite driving down Sunset Strip. This stretch of road is star-studded and the perfect place to see some of the priciest restaurants in the city.
- Rodeo Drive—While you won’t be able to step into any shops, you’ll feel expensive just looking at the exclusive boutiques that dot Rodeo Drive.
- Venice Beach—Get a glimpse of beautiful Venice Beach and the vast Pacific Ocean. There are enough skateboarders, guys with guitars, and marijuana shops to last you a lifetime!
Celebrity Homes—Find out how the other half really lives when you pass through Beverly Hills. I loved getting a sneak peek at celebrity homes, including Michael Jackson’s final residence—it was just as massive and fabulous as you’d expect!
Take Advantage of Photo Stops
If you’re lucky, you’ll get a tour guide that lets you milk the photo stops for all they’re worth! On my tour, there were four 15-minute stops to take in the cityscape, but our extraordinary guide Shawn let us step out for a five-minute photo break. Whether you get five minutes or 30 seconds, be sure to snap Instagram-worthy pics every chance you get!
Don’t Waste Time in the City of Angels
Even if you only have 24 hours in L.A., you can see it all! I highly recommend VIP Tours of California if you want a taste of everything. You may need to come back if you want to explore Madame Tussaud’s or hike up to the Hollywood sign, but a day-long bus tour will satisfy the sightseer in all of us. In fact, it’s quite possible that by the end of the tour, you’ll have seen more of the city than native Angelenos. L.A. is a top USA travel destination for a reason, and it’s especially friendly to boomer travelers and mother daughter trips. Never miss a chance to see this wonderful city!
