Ultimate Guide to Group Travel in Los Angeles
- Missey Dee
- Nov 12
- 3 min read
Updated: Nov 13
Planning a group trip to Los Angeles can be exciting but also challenging. Coordinating transportation, choosing activities everyone will enjoy, and making the most of your time requires careful planning. This Ultimate Guide to Group Travel in Los Angeles will help you navigate these challenges with practical tips on van rentals, top attractions, and group-friendly experiences.
Renting a Van for Your Group
When traveling with a group, renting a van is often the best way to stay together and save money. Los Angeles has many rental companies offering vans that seat 7 to 15 passengers. Here are some tips to find the right van rental:
Book early to secure availability, especially during weekends or holidays.
Choose a van with enough space for luggage and comfortable seating.
Check if the rental includes unlimited mileage, which is useful for exploring the city and nearby areas.
Confirm insurance coverage and driver requirements.
Using a van lets your group travel on your own schedule without relying on public transport or rideshares. It also creates a shared experience from the moment you hit the road.
Must-See Attractions for Groups
Los Angeles offers a wide range of attractions that suit groups of all ages and interests. Here are some highlights to include in your itinerary:
Griffith Observatory and Park: Enjoy panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood Sign. The observatory offers free public telescopes and interesting exhibits.
Santa Monica Pier and Beach: A classic spot for fun, with an amusement park, aquarium, and plenty of dining options.
The Getty Center: Explore impressive art collections and beautiful gardens. The architecture and views are stunning.
Hollywood Walk of Fame: Walk along the famous stars and visit the nearby TCL Chinese Theatre.
Universal Studios Hollywood: Perfect for groups who enjoy theme parks and movie magic.
Plan your visits to avoid peak hours or weekends when possible. Many attractions offer group discounts or require advance booking for tours.
Group-Friendly Activities and Dining
Finding activities that everyone enjoys can be tricky, but Los Angeles has plenty of options that work well for groups:
Escape Rooms: These interactive puzzles are great for teamwork and fun.
Bike Tours: Rent bikes and explore Venice Beach or the beach bike path together.
Food Tours: Discover LA’s diverse food scene with guided tours in neighborhoods like Downtown or Koreatown.
Live Shows and Concerts: Check schedules for venues like the Hollywood Bowl or The Greek Theatre.
Outdoor Movie Nights: During warmer months, parks and rooftops often host group-friendly screenings.
For dining, look for restaurants with large tables or private rooms. Many places in LA offer group menus or family-style dining, which makes ordering easier and more social. Some popular group-friendly spots include:
The Original Farmers Market: Multiple food stalls with diverse options.
In-N-Out Burger: A casual favorite for quick bites.
Mexican restaurants in East LA: Authentic flavors and spacious seating.
Tips for Smooth Group Travel in Los Angeles
Traveling as a group requires extra coordination. Here are some tips to keep your trip running smoothly:
Create a shared itinerary using apps like Google Docs or TripIt so everyone stays informed.
Assign roles such as navigator, photographer, or meal planner to distribute responsibilities.
Use group messaging apps to communicate quickly during outings.
Plan some downtime to avoid burnout, especially with kids or older travelers.
Keep an eye on traffic updates; LA is known for congestion, so allow extra travel time.
If you'd like personalized assistance in planning trips, get in contact with our local travel concierge, Patty Kasten of
Comments