Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
Best Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from Los Angeles, CA
Los Angeles is a gateway to some of California's most dramatic scenery — from desert landscapes and mountain ski resorts to Channel Islands and the Pacific coast.
Joshua Tree, Santa Barbara, and the desert communities offer quintessentially California day trip experiences.
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Popular Interests
or browse all11 destinations near Los Angeles
Museum of Illusions - San Diego
San Diego, CA 92101
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.9 by 1.6k+ visitors) · 2 hrs from Los Angeles · fits $10 - $25 budget
Best time to visit: Year-round. Indoor museums and historic sites are great rainy-day options.
Dana Point Caves
Dana Point, CA 92629
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 0.3k+ visitors) · 1 hr 5 min from Los Angeles · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Heisler Park
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 7.6k+ visitors) · 60 min from Los Angeles · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Lookout Point
Corona Del Mar, CA 92625
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 1.6k+ visitors) · 53 min from Los Angeles · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Prime Desert Woodland Preserve
Lancaster, CA 93536
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr 12 min from Los Angeles · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Niguel Botanical Preserve
Laguna Niguel, CA 92677
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 0.8k+ visitors) · 1 hr from Los Angeles · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Red Rock Canyon State Park
Cantil, CA 93519
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.7 by 1.8k+ visitors) · 1 hr 50 min from Los Angeles · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
César E. Chávez National Monument
Keene, CA 93531
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.6 by 0.7k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 3 min from Los Angeles · fits $15 - $50 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for most outdoor activities. Winter for snow sports where available.
Apollo Community Regional Park
Lancaster, CA 93536
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.6 by 2.2k+ visitors) · 1 hr 16 min from Los Angeles · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Antelope Valley California Poppy Reserve State Natural Reserve
Lancaster, CA 93536
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.5 by 2.1k+ visitors) · 1 hr 24 min from Los Angeles · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Desert Tortoise Research Natural Area
CA 93505, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · well rated (4.4 stars) · 2 hrs 1 min from Los Angeles · fits Free - $20 budget
Best time to visit: Spring through fall for trails and foliage. Fall colors peak mid-October in most areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best day trips from Los Angeles, CA?
The best day trips from Los Angeles include state parks, historic towns, scenic drives, wineries, and outdoor recreation. Our page shows top-rated destinations with real drive times, Google ratings, and budget estimates so you can pick the right trip for your schedule and interests.
How far should I drive for a day trip from Los Angeles?
Most great day trips from Los Angeles are between 1 and 3 hours away. Under an hour gets you local parks and nearby towns. Two to three hours opens up state parks, lakefront destinations, and small cities worth a full day of exploring.
What are cheap things to do near Los Angeles?
Many of the best day trips near Los Angeles are free or low-cost. State parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets are all great options. Check the budget estimates on each destination card above to plan a trip that fits your wallet.
What is the best time of year for day trips from Los Angeles?
Spring and fall are ideal for most destinations near Los Angeles, with mild weather and smaller crowds. Summer is great for beaches and water activities. Winter works well for indoor attractions like museums, historic sites, and food-focused trips. Check the seasonal notes on each card for specific timing tips.
Are there weekend getaways near Los Angeles?
Yes. Many destinations within 2-4 hours of Los Angeles make excellent overnight trips. Look for spots with multiple activities, good dining, and nearby lodging. Use the "Plan This Trip" button on any card to start building an itinerary, or check our drive-time pages for destinations at specific distances. If you need a car, compare rental options to find the best deal.
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