Considering a trip to S. Cal in July...What do we need to know?

[momoflizandains]

We are considering taking a trip to Southern California in July (when school is out and we can get decent airfare). We are thinking of staying at the Grand Californian most nights (DVC members) but need a hotel for Fri and Sat. I say that there is a Southern California City Pass that includes many parks. We would also like to see Rodeo Drive, Chinese Theatre, Hollywood icons, etc. I would love any tips, tricks, or ideas that anyone could provide to us. Is this a good time to go? Which attractions would you recommend? Hotels for Fri/Sat?

Thanks so much.

 

[oc_tony]

Sounds like a fun trip! Considering the wide variety of sites you want to see, if you weren't already planning to, I would definitely suggest renting a car for your entire trip. The places you mention potentially range from San Diego to LA and having the freedom of your own wheels would be a big plus.

You can do the LA/Hollywood/Beverly Hills sites in one full (long) day, but I'd reserve 2-3 days for DL and maybe save it for last so you won't be disappointed by everything else.

City Pass includes parks in San Diego, so if you go that route, maybe use that Fri/Sat for an overnight excursion and stay in a hotel down there. They have Sea World, the Zoo, Wild Animal Park, beaches, shopping, etc. It's only a two-hour drive and it has enough sites that it could easily take 2 days.

Hope this helps get you started. July is hot and busy, but DW and I are both teachers so we understand the necessity of traveling/vacationing during the summer.

 

[Rescue Pooh]

Sounds like you're going to have a great time. Just as OC Tony said July can be pretty toasty.

 

[SSRJen]

I would say head down to San Diego and enjoy the Wild Animal Park/Zoo and possibly Sea World. You can find some pretty great places by the water at decent rates and great deals from time to time. San Diego is beautiful and I still enjoy staycations now that I live here.