Staycation Los Angeles: How to plan the perfect weekend getaway
Explore weekend escapes in DTLA, Hollywood, Santa Monica, Pasadena, Long Beach, and Marina del Rey.
Edited by Sarah Kuta | November 21, 2025
Los Angeles is a city of vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own rhythm and hidden gems. For locals, a weekend reset does not require a long drive or a plane ticket. Instead, you can pick a neighborhood, embrace a car-optional adventure, and enjoy a fresh perspective on the city you call home. Whether you’re drawn to spring garden blooms, summer concerts, or a day at the museum Los Angeles is easy to explore, one weekend at a time.
Downtown LA: Art and architecture
Begin your weekend with a stroll through downtown Los Angeles, where world-class art and architecture come together within a few city blocks. Reserve a free timed entry ticket to The Broad and explore galleries filled with contemporary masterpieces. Admire the striking design of Walt Disney Concert Hall, then ride the historic Angels Flight Railway to Grand Central Market for lunch. In the afternoon, visit MOCA or browse the shops and bakeries in Little Tokyo. As evening arrives, the Arts District offers vibrant murals and a lively dining scene.
For a seamless arts-and-architecture base, Conrad Los Angeles is just steps from Walt Disney Concert Hall and The Broad. Enjoy modern guest rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic city views, and on-site dining at one of the hotel’s many restaurants featuring cuisine and signature cocktails inspired by local California flavors.
Universal thrills and Hollywood icons
For a weekend filled with family fun and Hollywood magic, Universal City is a top pick. Spend your first day at Universal Studios Hollywood and CityWalk, then catch a show at the Hollywood Bowl or Pantages Theatre if the season allows. The next morning, take the Metro B Line to Griffith Observatory for sweeping city views, then head to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and visit the TCL Chinese Theatre.
Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City is your ideal base, offering spacious guest rooms, an outdoor pool, and easy access to Universal Studios and Hollywood attractions. The hotel is located just a short walk from the park entrance and offers a free shuttle, making it easy to maximize your time at the attractions.
Santa Monica & Venice: Coastal reset
Start your morning with a walk along The Strand, then wander the Santa Monica Pier and Third Street Promenade. In the afternoon, explore the Venice Canals and Abbot Kinney’s shops and galleries. As the sun sets, stroll through Palisades Park for ocean views. Hampton Inn & Suites Santa Monica is just a few blocks from the Pier, making it an ideal base for beach days and shopping. Guests enjoy modern rooms, an outdoor pool with a hot tub and fire pit, and a free hot breakfast each morning. The Metro E Line and bike paths make car-free travel easy in these coastal neighborhoods.
Pasadena: Gardens and galleries
Pasadena is perfect for a low-key culture-filled weekend. Spend your first day exploring Old Pasadena’s boutiques and the Norton Simon Museum’s renowned art collection. Enjoy dinner along Colorado Boulevard, then rest up for a morning at The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens — especially stunning in spring. The area is easy to navigate on foot or by short rideshare, and Hilton Pasadena is your ideal home base. The hotel features comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a convenient location near Pasadena’s top sights, including museums and gardens.
Long Beach: Waterfront and aquariums
Long Beach offers a breezy waterfront escape without leaving the city. Visit the Aquarium of the Pacific, stroll Shoreline Village, and watch boats drift by in the harbor. Evening brings the retro charm of Fourth Street’s shops and cafes. On your second day, paddle through the Naples Canals or explore the Museum of Latin American Art. Hilton Long Beach is your perfect stay, with spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and easy access to the city’s highlights, including the waterfront and major attractions.
Marina del Rey: Harbors and bike paths
For an active coastal weekend, begin with a kayak or paddleboard session in the marina, then bike the beach path to Venice or Santa Monica. In the evening, enjoy a golden hour walk along The Strand or jam out to live music. Hotel MdR Marina del Rey - a DoubleTree by Hilton is a marina hub with easy access to coastal adventures. Guests enjoy the outdoor pool, modern rooms, and on-site dining at Barbianca Local Kitchen, all within reach of the marina and coastal paths.
Disclaimer: We used AI assistance to generate this content. All information was reviewed by Hilton's team to ensure it meets our standards for accuracy and ethics, allowing us to better match your travel needs and connect you with the right stay.
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