Expert: Steve Summers - 2/25/2009

Question
Hi Steve,
My partner and I are both 21 and are visiting USA in June/July and need some help! We fly into LA at 7am on the 19th June then are planning to fly to Las Vegas on the 24th so we have 5 full days and a half day (leaving no room for jetlag) After research we have decided we really like the look of Six Flags (roller coaster heaven), Legoland (looks really interesting and unique), Universal Studios (as I'm told it is a must) and of course Disneyland. We were also hoping to possibly get down to San Diego and then fly from there straight to Las Vegas. Looking at it now I see that we are probably beeing a little optimistic fighting everything in! Do you think we would be better focusing just on a few things and basing at Hollywood for a few nights and Anaheim for a few nights or do you think we could get all the way down to San Diego too? Do you think you can do Disneyland in 1 day? Your input would be most appreciated. Many Thanks, Megan

Answer
Hi Megan,

This is quite a challenge.

My thought would be to go north to south, staying in Hollywood for several nights, then spending a few nights in Anaheim. In Hollywood, I recommend the Renaissance, or the Holiday Inn Walk of Fame. In Anaheim, I recommend the Howard Johnson or the Candy Cane Inn.

19th-Visit Hollywood, settle into hotel. Kodak Theater, Chinese Theater, Walk of Fame, Hollywood & Highland Center.
20th-Six Flags Magic Mountain
21st-Universal Studios. Go to Anaheim for Hotel
22nd-Disneyland
23rd-Disneyland
24th-Legoland. Fly out of San Diego

Keep in mind that this is the beginning of summer, and most of these attractions will be very crowded. Remember to be patient. Disneyland will probably be the most crowded, since it is the most popular. (Universal is the 2nd-most popular) Going on Monday and Tuesday will help, since crowds will be less than the weekend.

You can do it. And you'll get the true LA experience, since we are always trying to do more than we really have enough time for! Take lots of pictures!

Have fun!