Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Chino Hills, CA to Santa Monica, CA

Chino Hills and Santa Monica are two of the most iconic cities in California, offering some of the best places to visit, unwind, and explore. A road trip from Chino Hills to Santa Monica is nothing short of exhilarating, given the breathtaking scenery along the way. The best part about this road trip is the midpoint, Montebello, CA, which offers a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs and grab a bite. Here are the top five things to do on a road trip from Chino Hills to Santa Monica.

1. Visit the Griffith Observatory

The Griffith Observatory is a popular destination for astronomy enthusiasts and anyone looking to have a great time. The observatory is perched on a hill in Griffith Park offering an incredible panoramic view of the city at night. The observatory's planetarium is also worth checking out for an out-of-this-world experience.

Fun Fact: The Griffith Observatory has been a filming location for several Hollywood blockbusters, such as "La La Land" and "Transformers."

2. Drive along the Pacific Coast Highway

The Pacific Coast Highway is an iconic scenic route that offers picturesque views of the California coastline. Visitors can drive along the highway, soaking up breathtaking ocean views and stopping at any of the many outlook points. The road provides an incredible opportunity to witness the natural beauty of California's shoreline.

Fun Fact: The Pacific Coast Highway is the longest state highway in California, stretching over 656 miles.

3. Tour the J. Paul Getty Museum

The J. Paul Getty Museum is one of LA's most prestigious art institutions, with a vast collection of European art pieces. Visitors can enjoy the incredible experience of art in all forms, from paintings to sculptures, while immersing themselves in the historical beauty.

Fun Fact: The J. Paul Getty Museum's collection includes over 1.3 million items.

4. Walk along the Santa Monica Pier

The Santa Monica pier is a fun destination for any road trip, offering a carnival-like atmosphere and a unique dining experience. The pier offers several travel attractions, including the Santa Monica Aquarium, an open-air market, and an amusement park.

Fun Fact: The Santa Monica Pier marks the official "end-of-the-trail" for Route 66.

5. Visit the Universal Studios Hollywood

The Universal Studios is a world-renowned theme park, featuring a range of attractions. Visitors can enjoy thrill rides such as the Jurassic World ride and Transformers ride, among other family-friendly activities.

Fun Fact: Universal Studios Hollywood is the heir of the first Universal Studios, founded in 1915.

With these top five things to do, your road trip from Chino Hills to Santa Monica is bound to be unforgettable. Whether you're a culture buff or just looking for a fun day out, there's something for everyone.

This road trip covers a distance of approximately 65 miles and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, depending on traffic. The route will take you through scenic roads, urban areas, and plenty of roadside diners to replenish your energy. It's a perfect opportunity to soak up the beauty of California and create unforgettable memories along the way.