Los Angeles Business Trip: Work Hard, Sightsee Smart Tips

On Nov 13, 2025

Los Angeles on a Business Trip - CCO - 14006 - Pixabay — CCO – 14006 – Pixabay

If you’re heading to Los Angeles for business meetings, and time is limited, there are some ways you can still enjoy some of the more iconic experiences in the city. Read on to find out more.

A Hectic Schedule

Your schedule might be full, but a free morning or a few hours in the evening are all you need for a quick, memorable taste of LA. Plus, they could be a nice break from the pressure of work. What you really need, is probably a bit of strategic planning.

Choose accommodation close to work venues - CCO Roselle - Pixabay — Choose accommodation close to work venues – CCO Roselle – Pixabay

The first thing to think about, is probably your accommodation. As the city seems rather spread out, try and choose a hotel or rental near your main appointments to avoid losing time in traffic.

Ideally, with time limits, it’s also best to plan for just one simple activity in a free window of time. For example, you could take an evening walk or a quick trip for a general view. Notably, it’s not perfect for a long walk-around sightseeing tour. So, consider ridesharing.

Dress For Work & Relaxation

If you don’t have much time between appointments, a great tip is to dress for work. Or, go for smart but casual. Choose something suitable for a relaxed meal later in the day.

Dress smart but casual - CCO - stevenadams01 - Pixabay — Dress smart but casual – CCO – stevenadams01 – Pixabay

Choose a place to go that’s manageable without exhausting yourself. Obviously if you go somewhere close to your accommodation, that may be best. And, as with any major city, just use basic common sense about your surroundings.

Pick Classic Spots

When you’re ready to pick that one spot, it should be a choice that works perfectly with your tight schedule. If you want that classic postcard view of the city for your Instagram, then the Hollywood Sign, and Griffith Observatory are probably good things to do.

Snap the famous Hollywood Sign - CCO - acheii - Pixabay — Snap the famous Hollywood Sign – CCO – acheii – Pixabay

Actually, it’s a great option if you’re staying in Hollywood or Downtown. It’s ideal for a late afternoon visit where you can catch the daylight and then watch the city lights come on.

Try The Santa Monica Pier

For a more relaxed vibe, you could opt for visiting the Santa Monica Pier and beachfront after a busy day. Notably, it’s a good spot if you are already on the Westside for a meeting or dinner. Or, for the boasting rights, experience the “I saw Hollywood” moment, at the Walk of Fame.

The Hollywood Walk of Fame - CCO Masbebet - Pixabay — The Hollywood Walk of Fame – CCO Masbebet – Pixabay

Meanwhile, the TCL Chinese Theatre also delivers a fun time. Possibly, it’s best visited in the early evening for photos but only if you’re already based in that area. After all, the city’s large, traffic can be an nightmare, and delays should be anticipated.

Quick Options For Your Itinerary

Here’s some other itinerary suggestions, should your meeting end at 4:30. Take a rideshare to Griffith Observatory by 5:00, spend an hour and a half enjoying the view, and then head out by 6:30 to make it to dinner.

The Griffith Observatory - CCO RJA1988 - Pixabay — The Griffith Observatory – CCO RJA1988 – Pixabay

Alternatively, if you have a free morning, you could grab breakfast near the Santa Monica Pier, take a stroll on the boardwalk, and then return to your hotel to get ready for your day.

Juggling & Planning

Obviously, it will take some juggling, but hey, business and planning go hand in hand. So, you probably will manage your time for both relaxation and work, if you prioritize your time.

Have you ever squeezed in some sightseeing and experienced the vibe of Los Angeles alongside a busy business schedule? Let us know what you did while you were there and come back often for more travel news, tips and updates.