Getting Around Los Angeles with a Charter Bus
Like we said before, LA’s infamous traffic makes it a bit tricky to get around the city. While we can’t guarantee you won’t hit a traffic jam or two, we can guarantee that you have a comfortable ride while you wait for the jams to clear up! With a charter bus rental at your disposal, your group will enjoy cool air conditioning, WiFi for easy social media access, power outlets to keep devices charged up, and the services of a professional bus driver who will handle the traffic with ease. And with both compact minibuses and full-size coaches available to book, you’ll always have plenty of seats for everyone in your party. Whether you’re heading into Los Angeles with a small family group or a large team of LA coworkers, we’ll make sure you’re paired with the perfect LA charter bus rental.
Prepare for an LA Vacay
For the most successful trip, here are a few steps you and your group can take to be prepared for anything in LA:
- Bring comfortable walking shoes. You might have heard the song “Nobody walks in L.A.,” but that’s not always true for tourists, even if you have an LA charter bus rental taking you from place to place.
- Pack for sunny weather in any season. Los Angeles is typically hot, but winters can be chilly at night with occasional rain.
- Make a list of places you want to see, look up their locations, and create your custom itinerary before calling to book your LA charter bus.
Where to Stay
Finding the perfect hotel is important, but there are so many options in Los Angeles that it can be difficult to know where to start. Focus on trusted names and a location near at least some attractions on your itinerary, so you can spend less time traveling and more time having fun. Here are just a few options to consider:
The Biltmore Los Angeles
Address: 506 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90071
Phone: (213) 624-1011
Omni Los Angeles Hotel at California Plaza
Address: 251 S Olive St, Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: (213) 617-3300
InterContinental Los Angeles Downtown
Address: 900 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90017
Phone: (213) 688-7777
The Westin Bonaventure Hotel & Suites
Address: Los Angeles, 404 S Figueroa St Los Angeles, CA 90071
Phone: (213) 624-1000
Hotel Indigo Los Angeles Downtown
Address: 899 Francisco St, Los Angeles, CA 90017
Phone: (213) 232-8800
Master Your First Trip to Los Angeles
For first-time visitors to Los Angeles, plenty of popular highlights will fill an entire week-long itinerary. We have put together the following suggested schedule for first-time visitors, based on our previous clients’ favorite destinations.
Day 1: Explore Hollywood
To most of the world, Los Angeles is synonymous with Hollywood. Be sure to have your LA charter bus take you to a few of these top Hollywood attractions that fully embrace the theme of TV- and movie-making magic.
Morning: Madame Tussauds Hollywood
Address: 6933 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Phone: (323) 798-1670
Celebrity sightings are at the top of most LA sightseers’ wish lists, but you can guarantee an up-close view of hundreds of celebs with a visit to Madame Tussauds Hollywood, one of the neighborhood’s top tourist attractions. Call ahead to make a reservation for your group to avoid delays.
Lunch: Musso & Frank Grill
Address: 6667 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Phone: (323) 467-7788
A few blocks away from Madame Tussauds stands Hollywood’s oldest eatery, the one-time haunt of such regulars as Raymond Chandler, Charlie Chaplin, and Marilyn Monroe. First opened in 1919, the restaurant has a vintage vibe and classic American cuisine, perfect for an Old Hollywood dining experience.
Afternoon: Your Own Personal Hollywood Tour
It’s easier than you might think to plan your own personal Hollywood tour, with no guide necessary. Choose a few of the following destinations to explore at your own pace. When you’ve had your fill of Hollywood, your LA charter bus will be waiting to take you back to your hotel.
Hollywood TCL Chinese Theatre
Address: 6925 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
Phone: (323) 461-3331
This Hollywood landmark opened in 1927 as Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and instantly became an icon with its whimsical pagoda-inspired facade. It’s also the site of the famous cement-press handprints and footprints of the stars. Inside is the world’s largest IMAX auditorium. Why not catch a movie or take a VIP tour of the lavish, storied interior?
Dolby Theatre
Address: 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
Phone: (323) 308-6300
The Dolby Theatre (formerly the Kodak Theatre) is the one-and-only home of the Academy Award Ceremony, also known as the Oscars. On other nights, the venue hosts a full lineup of big-name performers and events. Tours are available on select dates.
Hollywood Walk of Fame
Address: N Highland Ave & Hollywood Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90028
The Hollywood Walk of Fame is among the most famous tourist attractions in Los Angeles. Spanning 18 blocks, the landmark under your feet comprises almost 3,000 embedded terrazzo and brass stars dedicated to the biggest names in the entertainment industry. Will you find your favorite?
View the Hollywood Sign at Ovation Hollywood
Address: 6801 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Not up for hiking all the way up the Hollywood Sign? No problem. You’re already in a prime location to get a perfect view of the historic hillside icon. Take the escalators all the way up to the third and fourth floors of Ovation Hollywood, a shopping and entertainment complex. You'll find observation decks for a picture-perfect view of the Hollywood Sign.
El Capitan Theatre
Address: 6838 Hollywood Blvd, Hollywood, CA 90028
Phone: (818) 845-3110
The El Capitan Theatre opened in 1926, when it was the largest playhouse in Hollywood. This vintage venue is now home to all of Disney’s movie premieres and presents Disney classics on the big screen all year round.
The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel
Address: 7000 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028
Phone: (323) 856-1970
The historic Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel was the site of the 1st Academy Awards back in 1929. A striking landmark, the hotel has been featured in multiple movies and hosted countless movie stars from all eras. There are even rumored ghost sightings of late celebrities, including Errol Flynn and Marilyn Monroe. Stop in for a drink at one of several bars and immerse yourself in Hollywood history.
Hollywood Museum
Address: 1660 N Highland Ave, Hollywood, CA 90028
Phone: (323) 464-7776
Visit this amazing museum in the historic Max Factor Building to see props, artifacts, costumes, and TV and movie memorabilia. The collection boasts more than 11,000 items on display across four floors, so allow plenty of time to take it all in.
Dinner: Mel’s Drive-In Hollywood
Address: 1660 N Highland Ave, Hollywood, CA 90028
Phone: (323) 465-3111
The Hollywood location of the beloved local Mel’s Drive-In chain shares the Max Factor Building with the Hollywood Museum. The retro diner, complete with jukebox soundtrack and celebrity headshots as decor, specializes in classic burgers and fries and special boozy Spiked Shakes.
Indulge at the end of a long day exploring Hollywood, and you’ll be glad to have a Los Angeles charter bus to take you back to your hotel!
Day 2: Universal Studios
A theme park centered around movie-making — it doesn’t get more LA than that! A visit to Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-do for first-timers in Los Angeles. We strongly recommend spending a whole day at this fun-packed destination.
Morning and Afternoon: Universal Studios Hollywood
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
Phone: (800) 864-8377
Start your day with a behind-the-scenes tour of the real-life working studios, followed by an exciting round of thrills on the theme park rides. The park is organized around 10 themed lands, among them Jurassic World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Minion Land and the newly opened Super Nintendo World.
Evening: Universal CityWalk
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608
Phone: (800) 864-8377
After an exciting day at Universal Studios, it’s a no-brainer to head to the magical Universal CityWalk for the evening. This completely free area is a super-fun complex of shops, entertainment, and restaurants. Soak up the fun and choose from more than 30 places to eat.
Day 3: Disneyland
Okay, it’s not technically in LA, but in neighboring Anaheim. But Disneyland is close enough — and definitely enticing enough — for a day trip from any Los Angeles-area home base. It's even easier when you’ve booked a Los Angeles charter bus rental.
All Day: Disneyland Park
Address: 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802
Phone: (714) 781-4636
Don't miss the chance for a day of magic at the original Disneyland! Don’t try to pack anything else into your day either — the park deserves all the time your itinerary allows. The entire park is truly iconic, with can’t-miss highlights like Main Street U.S.A. and the Sleeping Beauty Castle, Mickey’s Toontown, and Tomorrowland. A visit to Disneyland promises to be an unforgettable part of any LA vacation. After all, it’s the Happiest Place on Earth!
Remember, when your feet are totally worn out and you’re exhausted by a full day of Disney fun, your private LA charter bus will be there waiting to take you back to your hotel in total comfort.
Day 4: More Anaheim Adventures
Disneyland has dominated the Anaheim tourism scene since it opened in 1955, but it’s not the only theme park in town. Check out some other attractions in the area.
Morning: Knott’s Berry Farm
Address: 8039 Beach Blvd, Buena Park, CA 90620
Phone: (714) 220-5200
Knott’s Berry Farm is a super-fun destination, notable as the first theme park in California, opening in 1923. The park started as a roadside stand selling berries, jams and pies, and gradually transformed the farm into the popular theme park it is today. Along with thrill and water rides, shows, the Ghost Town, and Camp Snoopy, you can still get a delicious boysenberry pie at Mrs. Knott’s Chicken Dinner Restaurant.
Late Afternoon: Bowers Museum
Address: 2002 N Main St, Santa Ana, CA 92706
Phone: (714) 567-3600
The Bowers Museum, located in Anaheim's neighboring suburb of Santa Ana, is a prominant cultural center showcasing a diverse range of art, history, and cultural exhibits. With a focus on both local and global heritage, the museum features a fascinating mix of permenant and temporary displays, including Native American artifacts, Asian art, and Oceanic treasures.
Evening: Anaheim Gardenwalk
Address: 400 West Disney Way, Anaheim, CA 92802
Phone: (562) 695-1513
Have your bus drop you off at the Anaheim GardenWalk entertainment, dining, and shopping complex. Here you can shop, get some food and enjoy live entertainment — all without having to pay for parking!
Day 5: Tourist Attractions in Long Beach
Long Beach is a vibrant coastal city in LA County that’s super easy to reach when you have a Los Angeles charter bus. It’s packed with tourist attractions and worthy of a full day of exploration.
Morning: The Queen Mary
Address: 1126 Queens Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: (562) 435-3511
The Queen Mary, a luxury transatlantic ocean liner now permanently docked in Long Beach, is one of the most famous ships in history. Visitors can tour the beautiful vessel and learn all about its heritage, including its lavish mid-century heyday and service as a WWII troop ship. Allegedly haunted, the Queen Mary embraces its spooky vibe with themed ghost tours and other visitor experiences.
Lunch: The Auld Dubliner
Address: 71 S Pine Ave, Long Beach, CA 90813
Phone: (562) 437-8300
Live music, a full bar, and classic Irish grub — it's a delicious lunch and fun time for all! Grab a bite to eat at this authentic, family-owned Irish pub before heading to your next destination in your Los Angeles charter bus.
Afternoon: Aquarium of the Pacific
Address: 100 Aquarium Way, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: (562) 590-3100
With over 11,000 species, the Aquarium of the Pacific is an incredible destination for learning about marine life and the natural world. Some of the most popular exhibits include the adorable Sea Otter Habitat, Shark Lagoon, and the June Keyes Penguin Habitat.
Evening
Whale Watching with Harbor Breeze Cruises
Address: 100 Aquarium Way, Dock #2, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: (800) 900-8188
While you’re already at the Pacific Ocean's edge, why not get out on the water and spot amazing marine creatures with a whale-watching tour? Harbor Breeze Cruises offers guided whale-watching tours all year round. Blue whales are often spotted from May through October, while gray whales migrate along the California coast from November to May. You might spot dolphins, sea lions, seals, and porpoises during any season.
Dinner: Pier 76 Fish Grill
Address: 95 Pine Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802
Phone: (562) 983-1776
The Long Beach coastal vibe might put you in the mood for fresh seafood, so grab a table at Pier 76 Fish Grill. The industrial-chic restaurant also has an impressive list of craft beers, making it a great place to unwind after a long day of walking. And with a charter bus driver as your professional DD, you won’t have to worry about who’s going to drive home!
Day 6: Santa Monica
Ask any LA local, and they’ll agree that Santa Monica is one of the coolest hubs in the region. The walkable city sits next to a beautiful beach and is packed with trendy shops, 4 restaurants, bars, and other entertainment options. Allow a full day to enjoy Santa Moncia.
Morning: Heal the Bay Aquarium
Address: 1600 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Phone: (310) 393-6149
This aquarium is operated by Heal the Bay, a nonprofit that aims to protect and preserve the Santa Monica Bay. You can see more than 100 different local species at the aquarium, which also offers hands-on activities and educational programs for all ages.
Lunch: Big Dean's Ocean Front Cafe
Address: 1615 Ocean Front Walk, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Phone: (310) 393-2666
Lunch comes with an unrivaled beach view at this laid-back, kitschy pub. Big Dean’s is a Santa Monica staple. The original restaurant at the location opened in 1902, making it one of the oldest dining landmarks in Santa Monica. The menu of comfort food classics is excellent.
Afternoon: Pacific Park
Address: 380 Santa Monica Pier, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Phone: (310) 260-8744
After lunch, walk right over to Pacific Park, a nostalgic oceanfront amusement park right on the Santa Monica Pier. The park offers boardwalk classics like rides, slides, arcade games, fun vendors and the famous Ferris wheel.
Evening: Santa Monica Beach
Address: Pacific Coast Hwy, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Spend the rest of your day soaking up the sun and cooling off in the waves at Santa Monica Beach. With 3 wide-open miles of beautiful sand, you and your group can sunbathe, bike, swim, go on a stroll, or rent beach equipment for your favorite beach activities. Surf lesson, anyone?
Afterward, choose from dozens of restaurants within a few minutes’ walk, or head back to the Santa Monica Pier for over-the-water dining.
Day 7: Outdoor Adventures in LA
Los Angeles boasts an abundance of outdoor beauty, both in its natural scenery and at many of its top tourist destinations. All that year-round sunshine also encourages visitors to get outdoors. Here are some great outdoor places to go in your Los Angeles charter bus.
Morning: Los Angeles Zoo
Address: 5333 Zoo Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90027 (323) 644-4200
The Los Angeles Zoo is a great destination if you want to spend your last vacation day outdoors. It’s an ideal size — not too big, not too small — for a full morning’s visit. You can see your favorites among more than 1,000 animal inhabitants from around the world, and still have the afternoon free for a different kind of fun.
Afternoon: The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
Address: 1151 Oxford Rd, San Marino, CA 91108 (626) 405-2100
The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens is a mouthful of a name, but it describes how this historic institution combines multiple amazing attractions into one. Stroll around the extensive gardens outdoors, then pop inside to admire art and important antiques. Easy Group Travel in LA
Let our Los Angeles charter bus experts help you plan the perfect LA getaway for your group. You can focus on planning all the fun activities and excursions around the region, and we’ll handle the transportation and logistics.
Call our team at 310-295-9547 for a free quote on your bus rental in Los Angeles!
