Hi all. It's time to experience the American culture first hand! I'm going to Microsoft PDC in Los Angeles with my boss. It's just a few days away. This will be my first trip to the United States, and I will have some days that can be dedicated to tourism. I would really appreciate suggestions about places to visit, where to go, etc. If I can use the public transport system to get to those places, it's a small plus. We will rent a car, but only for a few days. Some things I already have planned: - Disneyland! It's a childhood dream of mine :) - Shopping. Stuff like electronics and Nike shoes are much cheaper. Thanks! [Edited by - Idex on November 10, 2009 4:23:04 PM]

Here's my previous response to this in the things to do in LA.
I never get sick of Venice beach but if you are going to Disneyland that will eat up all your time right there because you know how big that place is. Last time I went they even got like a 2nd part to it or something. Used to be alot smaller when I was a kid.

Just as a heads up, the public transportation in LA is terrible.

Disneyland is fun but expensive. Definitely do it if you want to go, but like someone mentioned, it WILL eat up a whole day. But you'll also love it. The atmosphere is like no other: a bunch of obnoxiously happy people in one place - the best!

Venice beach is also AMAZING. You can see all sorts of people from all walks of life.

Quote: Original post by Crazyfool
Venice beach is also AMAZING. You can see all sorts of people from all walks of life.

This is exactly why I avoid Venice Beach lol.

I think we've established that all you need to do in L.A. is hit up In & Out. Once you've done that, you can fly back early. [grin]

Microsoft PDC in Los Angeles is scheduled for Nov 17-19 so you're asking about what kinds of things to do next week. You could go see a Lakers game. Their schedule shows them at home playing the Detroit Pistons next Tuesday and the Chicago Bulls next Thursday. Even if you don't like basketball, NBA games are events worth experiencing at least one time.

I will arrive November 12 and fly back November 21. I was already thinking about watching a baseball, basketball, hockey or football game. So thanks for the link, I will definitely see a NBA game.

And thanks for all the other suggestions. I will try to go to In & Out and Venice beach.

Quote: Original post by Lazy Foo
Just as a heads up, the public transportation in LA is terrible.

Seriously.

Here is what you do. You get in your rental car and drive up here to San Francisco.

Quote: Original post by Idex
I will arrive November 12 and fly back November 21. I was already thinking about watching a baseball, basketball, hockey or football game. So thanks for the link, I will definitely see a NBA game.

And thanks for all the other suggestions. I will try to go to In & Out and Venice beach.

Baseball season is over. It ended last week when the Yankees beat the Phillies in the World Series. I don't follow hockey so I can't tell you much there.

There is an MLS playoff game between the Los Angeles Galaxy and the Houston Dynamo on Friday the 13th. That's a chance to see David Beckham play in the flesh before next years World Cup. The football in MLS isn't like the football in Brazil, but these are two of the best teams in the USA. Both teams feature players headed for the World Cup. 2009 MLS Cup Playoff Schedule.

Los Angeles doesn't have a NFL team at the moment, so as far as American football goes you'll have to check out a college game. I would recommend checking out the USC v. Stanford game on Saturday at the L.A. Coliseum. 2009 USC Football Schedule. If you really want to see an NFL game, you would have to drive to San Diego (about a two hour trip from L.A.). The San Diego Chargers play the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. San Diego Chargers Schedule.