Los Angeles Family Vacation: A 3-Day Itinerary with Travel Tips
Planning a family trip to Los Angeles? Look no further! This comprehensive guide details our recent 3-day adventure in the City of Angels, complete with travel tips and insights to help you make the most of your visit.
Day 1: Arrival in LA - JSX Flight Experience and Burbank Stay
Our Los Angeles adventure began with an exciting flight on JSX, a public charter service that offers a private jet-like experience. Here's what you need to know:
JSX Flight Details:
Routes:
Concord, CA to Burbank, Orange County, and Las Vegas
Oakland, CA to Burbank and Las Vegas
Perks: Snacks and drinks in waiting rooms, streamlined security process
Cost: Can be comparable to major airlines first or business class when booked in advance
Referral Code: Use B7H17F for $20 off your first flight
Parking: Valet at Oakland available at $40/day
Travel Tip:
While JSX offers convenience, be prepared for potential schedule changes. Always double-check your flight details before travel day.
Accommodation:
We stayed at The Tangerine, a charming mid-century motel in Burbank. Its retro vibe set the perfect tone for our LA adventure.
Note: For families, we found that sharing two queen beds works for a maximum of two nights. For longer stays, we recommend opting for an Airbnb to ensure everyone gets a good night's sleep.
Day 2: Exploring Burbank and Hollywood
Breakfast:
Start your day at Paty's in Burbank. While not mind-blowing, it offers a good meal and a fun 60's diner experience.
Morning Activity: Vintage Shopping in Burbank
Explore vintage shops on Magnolia Boulevard
Tip: Don't miss Porto's Bakery for Cuban treats and desserts (go early to avoid long lines)
Afternoon and Evening:
Bowling at Lucky Strike in Hollywood
Bonus: View of the Hollywood sign from the shopping center
Travel Tip:
This day was a hit with the kids - movies and bowling make for a perfect family outing, especially on a rainy day.
Dinner:
We opted for a low-key dinner from Whole Foods in our hotel room, followed by an early bedtime.
Day 3: Universal Studios and Super Mario World
Breakfast:
Quick bites from the hotel
Coffee from Alfred's (highly recommended)
Universal Studios Adventure:
Super Mario World:
Purchase wristbands for challenges ($40+ per person)
Book lunch at Toadstool Cafe in advance (reservations fill up quickly, but this Reddit link got us in)
Complete challenges to enter Bowser's Castle
Express Pass: Recommended for shorter wait times on most rides
Popular Rides:
Super Mario World ride (expect long wait times)
Jurassic Park (a family favorite)
Studio Tour: Exciting but may be scary for younger children and can be a little tricky for those with an affinity for motion sickness (hi, it’s me)
Travel Tips for Universal Studios:
Book tickets and Express Passes in advance
Arrive early to maximize your time
Be prepared for potential ride closures and long lines
Book a Toadstool Cafe reservation as soon as you enter the park
Dinner:
Don Cuco's - A family-friendly Mexican restaurant that was a hit with everyone.
Final Thoughts
Our Los Angeles family vacation was filled with excitement, nostalgia, and new experiences. While Super Mario World had its challenges, the overall trip was a wonderful adventure that left us eager to return to the City of Angels.