Best Long-Weekend Staycation Ideas In LA
When it comes to staycations, there is no better place in the world than LA. The beach, city and mountains are all within a short drive of each other, and there is no reason you cannot begin your day in the surf, check out one of the great museums in the city, then cap the day off with some skiing all before the sun sets. When you have access to a city like Los Angeles, there really is no need to travel far for the best getaways.
Around every corner, there is always something to do in LA that will interest even the pickiest of travelers. Sunrise yoga on the beach in Santa Monica, surf lessons in Malibu, live performances on the Sunset Strip, shopping on Rodeo Drive, priceless works of art at the LACMA, zip-lining through the mountains, and amusement parks like Universal and Disneyland are all just a short drive away. For those who really hope to embrace Los Angeles for all the pop-culture it is known for, book a private backlot tour at one of the studios, or even a bus tour to see popular attractions, star homes and who knows, maybe even rub elbows with a few celebs.
Here are a few match-ups to get you started:
West L.A.
The Grove
189 The Grove Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(323) 900-8080
www.thegrovela.com
It is not uncommon for hours to quickly pass without realizing it when visiting The Grove. Spending the day casually strolling around this well thought out shopping and entertainment district is a great way to experience some of the best things LA has to offer in a beautifully laid out space. Open to the public seven days a week, The Grove also has amazing restaurants like The Fat Cow from award winning chef Ramsay which is located right next to the movie theater. While you're there, be sure to also visit the more than 100 shops and grocers at the Original Farmers Market conveniently located within walking distance to The Grove.
LACMA
5905 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(323) 900-8080
www.lacma.org/
Whether you're a art aficionado or not, The Los Angeles County Museum of Art offers something for everyone. LACMA does not sit on a picturesque location like the Getty Center or the Getty Villa however LACMA does make up for it by being the largest art museum in the Western U.S with over 100,000 pieces of awe inspiring art. The massive 7 building complex sits on 20 acres of land and truly offers a wide variety of activities making LACMA one of the top spots to visit in Los Angeles. There is something for everyone including talks and lectures, kids programs, art classes, film viewings and discussions and of course world class art. Be sure not to miss Urban Light which is one of the highlights of this museum. Technically considered a piece of the collection, the installation consists of 202 restored Southern California street lights from the 1920's and 1930's and makes for some of the greatest backdrops for a photo.
Where To Stay
Montage Hotel Beverly Hills
225 N. Canon Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
(310) 860-7800
www.montagebeverlyhills.com
There is something very special about the Montage Beverly Hills and it makes for the perfect getaway for those longing for rest and relaxation with the kids. From milk and cookies at bedtime to pint-sized robes and slippers, little ones are welcomed and celebrated at The Montage. Can't find mom? Check Spa Montage! Spa Montage is a lavish two-story oasis designed to offer only the finest treatments for health, wellbeing and strength.
Santa Monica / Malibu
Santa Monica Pier
200 Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica, CA 90401
(310) 458-8901
www.santamonicapier.org
The 100-year old landmark at the end of the iconic Route 66 bursts with family entertainment. Visitors can take a ride on the 1920s carousel, check out the Santa Monica Pier Aquarium, test their skills out at a trapeze school, and take a spin on a few rides at Pacific Park, a family amusement park with an enormous Ferris wheel. The pier, home to different pubs and restaurants also offers a choice spot for anglers hoping to catch a fish. The pier is truly one of L.A.'s best attractions and one with a variety of activities for your staycation.
Malibu Creek State Park
1925 Las Virgenes Rd
Calabasas, CA 91302
(818) 880-0367
www.malibucreekstatepark.org
Considered the recreational crown jewel of the Santa Monica Mountains, Malibu Creek State Park has over 7,000 acres of pristine nature including rolling tall grass plains, oak savannahs and dramatic mountain peaks. Whether summer, winter or fall, any time is a great time to go for a hike or go camping in this nature preserve. You're guaranteed to get a glimpse of some wildlife with deer being abundant as well as gorgeous birds that are known to frequent the area. At night, hear the owls hoot, coyotes howl and tons of frogs ribbiting away by the creek making this location a great escape from the hustle of the city streets for your L.A. staycation.
Malibu Family Wines / Saddlerock Ranch
32111 Mulholland Hwy
Malibu, CA 90265
(818) 889-0120
www.malibufamilywines.com
Nestled deep in Malibu's Santa Monica Mountains and only a short drive from the busy streets of L.A., Malibu Family Wines is a sprawling refuge where urbanites come to get away and taste some of Malibu's finest varietals of wine. The winery sits on 61 acres of land on Saddlerock Ranch and is at one of the highest points of Kanan Dume where the view is incredible in all directions. Open from 11am to 6pm Monday through Sunday, the winery offers two labels to choose from: Saddlerock and Semler. And, whether you're in the mood to come with a group and hang out with a few bottles of wine or just go for a tasting, Malibu Family Wines is an experience that cannot be missed for any L.A. staycation. Prices are very reasonable for a bottle of wine and there is no admission to visit and picnic.
Where To Stay
Shutters On The Beach
1 Pico Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 458-0030
www.shuttersonthebeach.com
Shutters on the Beach is LA's premier beachfront resort just steps from the Santa Monica Pier. Close enough to enjoy the dancing neon lights at night, but far enough to enjoy the peaceful sounds of the waves crashing, Shutters On The Beach is the ideal place to call "home" while visiting Santa Monica. The guestrooms are designed with a beach house feel allowing the endless views of the Pacific Ocean, Catalina and Malibu to be the decor. This beautiful property located right on Santa Monica beach offers all the luxuries of a top hotel including a spa and fitness center complete with treatments as well as some of the best dining in the area with "One Pico" and "Coast".
Downtown L.A.
L.A. Live
900 W Olympic Blvd
Los Angeles, CA 90015
(213) 763-5483
www.lalive.com
In the heart of Downtown L.A., the pulse is at L.A. Live where all the action is. This sports and entertainment complex is the perfect mix of culture housing the STAPLES Center, Nokia Theatre, Club Nokia, The GRAMMY Museum, Lucky Strike Lanes & Lounge, movie theaters, and restaurants like Katsuya and LA Market by Kerry Simon. Catch a game, see a concert at Club Nokia or dine on some of L.A.'s finest cuisines.
Walt Disney Concert Hall
111 S. Grand Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(323) 850-2080
www.laphil.com
Home to the Los Angeles Philharmonic and host to classical music, Jazz and other events, The Walt Disney Concert Hall is one of Downtown L.A.'s must see attractions. The Hall has daily events and is regarded as one the best performing art centers in the U.S. During your long-weekend staycation, visit this iconic building and take in the California Philharmonic Orchestra, the Los Angeles Chamber Choir, The Los Angeles Symphony or any of the other many amazing performances offered. Make a special evening out of your visit and eat at the famed Patina restaurant, located inside the building.
Where To Stay
The Ritz-Carlton
900 W Olympic Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90015
(213) 743-8800
www.ritzcarlton.com/losangeles
Check into The Ritz-Carlton for the Rock Stars and Astronauts Family Package and experience this sophisticated oasis in the heart of downtown Los Angeles. Once your family steps out of your chic hotel room and heads down for breakfast at superstar chef Kerry Simon's LA Market, strut over to GRAMMY Museum for some serious Rock and Roll 101. Been there, done that? Grab the keys from the valet and jet on over to the California Science Center to view the Endeavor Space Shuttle Exhibit.
Nicole Standley a.k.a. JetSet Mom, is a social influencer + lifestylist covering luxury travel, fine-dining, fashion & pop culture for The JetSet Family. Follow her latest travels and escapades on Instagram, Google+ and Twitter.
