Traffic is real in Los Angeles. And unlike many major metropolitan destinations around the world, most tourists need to rent a car for efficiency's sake. Rush hour, construction, an accident, a sporting event, the President in town, and various unknown reasons can all cause severe delays. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
If you like to be early and allow time to park and situate yourself, a good rule of thumb is to look online for the time it takes to get to your destination, and multiple that by three (i.e. 20 miles= 60 minutes). It more often than not be double (i.e. 20 miles=40 minutes) and not triple, but triple prepares you for the worst. Traffic is a lot more tolerable when you expect it, plan for it, and do not have to panic while crawling along at 5mph. Enjoy the time to think, take note of interesting things around you that you'd like to visit, use the time to catch up with a loved one on the phone (hands free please), or listen to our trend-setting/variety of radio stations or a book on tape.
My personal favorite radio station is 93.5 KDAY, which plays the best and most original hip hop music from LA in the 90s.
Intersate 10
US$
free
Find your way with 133 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Last time I visited I bought a book for my son titled “You Are Loved” by a local LA author, and Ouiji board earrings for a friend’s birthday...
By
If I have a few hours to kill before a flight out of LAX, or if I want an inexpensive beach day, here's what I do: I start at Hank's & then go to Trask....
By
The Misfit in Santa Monica is a moody, gothic gastropub with creative comfort food, handcrafted cocktails, and a top-tier happy hour!
By
Hidden in Hollywoodland, the Garden of Oz is a mosaic masterpiece of art and quotes. A private gem that invites you to pause, gaze, and be inspired.
By
Olvera St. is the liveliest, and oldest, neighborhood in Los Angeles. I come here to get immersed in Latino culture. The buzz of the people is amazing...
By
I love thrift shopping! Like treasure hunting, you never know what you're going to find. There's joy in seeing new value in old things. Breathing fresh life into something recycled.
By
Everything you need to buy or make any floral arrangement for any occasion! My whole balcony is decorated with plants from the LA Flower District.
By
My favorite bowl is the “Ritual of Champions”. It has acai, hemp seeds, strawberries, bananas, cacao, and peanut butter drizzled on top.
By
If you ask some bartenders around the block in LA where they go on their days off or when they get off work, "Elbow Room" is the place...
By
"Figaro Bistrot" Los Angeles: the quintessential cafe and a magical spot that will allow you for a quick trip to Paris! I go for their Omelette for brunch.
By
"The Cat and Fiddle" in Los Angeles is a British bar with great Monday pie and pint. I love the happy hour, and I love the atmosphere to read here!
By
133 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 133 Insider Tips