Top Places to See When Driving from Altadena, California to Los Angeles, California

Driving from Altadena, California to Los Angeles, California is already an adventure in itself. With the scenic mountain view and coastal landscape, it's hard not to appreciate the beauty of California. However, if you're looking to make the most out of your drive, here are some of the top places you should see along the way.

A Scenic Drive Along the Angeles Crest Highway

Kick-off your road trip by driving through the Angeles Crest Highway, a 66-mile stretch road that runs through the Angeles National Forest. The beautiful sights of San Gabriel mountain views and the Pacific Ocean view will surround you throughout the ride. You'll also have the chance to make multiple pit stops along the way, such as Mount Wilson Observatory and Clear Creek Information Center.

Exploring the Heart of Los Angeles - DTLA

As you approach Los Angeles, make sure to schedule in some time to visit some iconic locations in DTLA. Take a turn on Grand Central Market and get some delicious food from the multiple vendors there. Then, walk towards the famous rows of murals or head towards the Walt Disney Concert Hall to get some cultural experience. The downtown city bustle provides a backdrop for a city that never stops.

Iconic Hollywood Sign & Griffith Observatory

The Hollywood sign and Griffith Observatory undoubtedly are the most recognizable landmarks in Los Angeles, and they should be on your must-visit list. First, climb up the hill to get a picture in front of the giant white letters. Then, drive yourself over to the Griffith Observatory to witness the vast Los Angeles expanse. Once there, tourists can explore the museum exhibits, take the planetarium tour, and enjoy some star spotting with the telescope.

Santa Monica Beach

Before concluding your Altadena to Los Angeles drive, enjoy a relaxing time at the Santa Monica Beach. The water and sand provide a relaxing atmosphere after the traveling. If you feel like exploring Pier, you can shop around, play games, and even go on some rides. Finish up your day by dining at one of the many seafood restaurants around the pier as you watch the sunset.

A Taste of Italy in Beverly Hills

Beverly Hills may be famous for its high-end shopping and celebrity sightings, but it's also home to some of the best Italian cuisine in Los Angeles. After a long drive, you deserve a break, scope out some Italian food at Beverly Hills. Head over to Via Alloro or Katsuya for some delicious pasta, margherita and a variety of grilled meat dishes.

The Famous Pink's Hot Dogs

To finish up your trip, make a stop at the famous family-owned hot dog stand on La Brea Avenue - Pink's Hot Dogs. For almost 85 years, they've been known to serve their loyal customers with a variety of hot dogs with fixings like chili, cheese, and more. Make sure you order the classic Hollywood Legend hot dog or the Giant 12-inch jalapeño hot dog, they don't disappoint on their flavor.

Conclusion

Driving from Altadena, California, to Los Angeles, California, has never been more exciting. There's so much to see and explore along the way, from mountain views to iconic landmarks. Your trip can be a mix of urban and natural beauty. Make sure to add this trip to the LA bucket list and hit every stop on this list.