Day Trips from Los Angeles
← All Los Angeles day tripsDay Trips from Los Angeles Within 3 Hours
The best day trips from Los Angeles within a 3 hours drive. Discover destinations, attractions, and activities — all with real drive times, ratings, and photos.
12 destinations within 3 hours of Los Angeles
Kern Valley Museum
Kernville, CA 93238
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · highly rated (4.9 by 0.2k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 52 min from Los Angeles
Sunset Cliffs Natural Park
San Diego, CA 92107
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Nature destination · highly rated (4.8 by 8.7k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 5 min from Los Angeles
Sunset Cliffs Cave
San Diego, CA 92107
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.8 by 2.7k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 2 min from Los Angeles
California Living Museum (CALM)
Bakersfield, CA 93306
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · highly rated (4.7 by 2.5k+ visitors) · 2 hrs 5 min from Los Angeles
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
Oak Flat Lookout Tower
CA 93306, USA
Why this destination?
Recommended because: well rated (4.7 stars) · 2 hrs 42 min from Los Angeles
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
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
SEA LIFE Aquarium
1 Legoland Dr, Carlsbad
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · highly rated (4.5 by 3.5k+ visitors) · 1 hr 31 min from Los Angeles
Birch Aquarium
La Jolla, CA 92037
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Family destination · well rated (4.4 stars) · 1 hr 48 min from Los Angeles
Silver City Ghost Town
Bodfish, CA 93205
Why this destination?
Recommended because: History destination · well rated (4.2 stars) · 2 hrs 39 min from Los Angeles
Sunny Jim's Sea Cave
La Jolla, CA 92037
Why this destination?
Recommended because: Adventure destination · well rated (4.2 stars) · 1 hr 52 min from Los Angeles
Where to stay:
Frequently Asked Questions About Day Trips from Los Angeles
What are the best day trips from Los Angeles within 3 hours?
The best day trips from Los Angeles within 3 hours include state parks, historic towns, wineries, scenic drives, and outdoor recreation. Use the destination cards above to see top-rated options with real drive times and ratings from Google.
What cities and attractions are within 3 hours drive of Los Angeles?
There are many cities, towns, and attractions within 3 hours of Los Angeles, CA. Our page shows the best destinations you can reach in that time, including attractions, parks, and activities -- not just a list of city names.
What are cheap or free things to do near Los Angeles?
Many of the best day trips from Los Angeles are free or low-cost, including state parks, hiking trails, scenic drives, and small-town Main Streets. Check the destination cards above for budget estimates and options.
Is 3 hours enough time for a good day trip from Los Angeles?
Yes! A 3 hours drive opens up plenty of great day trip destinations from Los Angeles. Many popular spots -- state parks, historic towns, and scenic areas -- are within this range, giving you a full day of exploration without needing an overnight stay.
Explore Other Drive Times from Los Angeles
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