A Spooky Getaway to Halloween Horror Nights, California

I recommend flying into Burbank Hollywood Airport, if it’s an option. It’s only about a 6-mile drive to Universal Studios from there, compared to the 27-mile drive from LAX. Once you arrive at your hotel, depending on the time, check into your hotel or leave your luggage at the front desk as it will feel better not to be pulling all of your suitcases around. Next, you’ll want to go to the Universal CityWalk and grab something to eat, either from the highly recommended VIVO Italian Kitchen or Antojitos Cocina Mexicana.

Today is the day you’ll be walking through the world-renowned, terrifying haunted houses. You’ll want to get breakfast from either the CityWalk or at your hotel, if offered. At the hotel I’ve stayed at and recommend the most, Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City, they offer a full breakfast buffet at Sierra Restaurant. You’ll want to visit the Universal CityWalk again today to check out the HHN merchandise at the Tribute Store. It's best if you purchase the merchandise beforehand, so you can bring it back to your hotel and avoid the big crowds inside the park. For admission into Halloween Horror Nights, I highly recommend the RIP Tour. It includes entry as early as 5pm, a tour guide for most of the night, a complimentary dinner buffet, an express pass and more! It costs around $389/ticket, but the prices vary annually.

After a great night filled with jumpscares and great food, it’s time to sit back and relax for another 2 days in Los Angeles. Once you've checked out of your hotel in Universal City, it’s time to check into The Peninsula Beverly Hills. Have lunch inside the hotel at The Belvedere with some of the best European cuisine. Afterwards, just chill out by the 60-foot pool on the rooftop deck with panoramic skyline views of Los Angeles and Century City.

Today, you’ll be exploring Beverly Hills and the iconic spots of Hollywood. First, go to the Beverly Hills Sign, which is a short 0.5 mile walk from The Peninsula. Then, take a 4-mile drive from the Beverly Gardens Park to the Hollywood Walk of Fame and walk along the stars. Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum is also a very popular attraction in that area, so it may be worth checking out as well. For dinner, go to Musso & Frank Grill. They are known for their old Hollywood charm and traditional recipes.

From The Peninsula Beverly Hills, it’s a 10-mile drive to LAX. Depending on where you’re going back to and to time your flight well with checkout, I recommend flying out in the morning or early afternoon.