A tattoo from Los Angeles is a souvenir that lasts. Planning one on a short trip takes a little more thought than booking at home, though: you're working around a schedule, and you'll be healing on the road. Here's how to make it work.
Book ahead, or try for same-day
If you know what you want, book before you arrive. Send us an appointment request or text 323.395.0049 with your idea, placement, rough size and the dates you're in town. A $100 deposit holds your time and goes toward the cost of your tattoo.
If you're already here, ask about same-day. We work by appointment, but same-day openings come up often, especially for small and medium pieces. Text us and we'll usually reply within about 20 minutes while we're open, daily from 8 am to 10 pm. Here's how same-day appointments work.
Larger custom work, like detailed realism or a piece that needs more than one session, is best planned well in advance, or started with a free virtual consultation before your trip.
When in your trip to get tattooed
A new tattoo needs two to four weeks to heal, and while it heals you should stay out of pools, hot tubs and the ocean, and keep it out of direct sun. LA trips tend to involve all of those.
- Beach or pool plans? Get tattooed near the end of your trip, so the healing happens after you've had your swim.
- City and food trip? Earlier works fine, as long as you can keep the tattoo covered with loose clothing when you're out in the sun.
- Flying home soon after? That's fine. Keep the tattoo clean, wear loose clothing over it, and follow your aftercare on the way.
Healing while you travel
Your artist will go over aftercare before you leave. The essentials, from our aftercare guide:
- Keep the bandage on for at least a few hours. If your artist uses a clear film like Saniderm, keep it on for at least two days.
- Wash gently with warm water and antibacterial soap, and pat dry; don't rub.
- Apply a thin layer of unscented lotion once or twice a day.
- No soaking: pools, hot tubs, oceans and rivers are off-limits until it's healed.
- Stay out of direct sun. Once healed, use sunscreen to keep it looking sharp.
Pack a small bottle of unscented lotion and gentle soap so you aren't hunting for them on the road.
Getting to the studio
We're at 705 S Olive St in Downtown Los Angeles, at 7th and Olive, a block from Pershing Square. If you're staying downtown, you can probably walk.
From elsewhere in the city, Metro is often easier than driving:
- From Hollywood: the B Line runs to 7th Street/Metro Center.
- From Santa Monica: the E Line runs to 7th Street/Metro Center.
- From Pasadena or Long Beach: the A Line runs to 7th Street/Metro Center with no transfer.
7th Street/Metro Center is a few minutes' walk from the studio. Driving? Metered spots are sometimes free out front, and paid lots within a block offer all-day rates from about $10.
Good to know for visitors
- Bring a valid photo ID. A passport works. You must be 18 or older to get tattooed in California.
- Payment: we accept cash, Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Venmo, Zelle, PayPal and Cash App.
- Languages: our team speaks English, Spanish, Russian and Korean.
- Pricing: our shop minimum is $150. Send us your idea for an estimate; see how our pricing works.
- Touch-ups: every tattoo includes a free touch-up within the first year, if you're back in town.
Visiting LA FAQ
Can I get tattooed the same day I arrive?
Often, yes. Text 323.395.0049 with your idea and we'll tell you what's open. Small and medium pieces are the easiest to fit in.
Is it OK to fly after getting a tattoo?
Yes. Keep it clean and covered with loose clothing, and follow your aftercare on the flight and after you land.
Can I go to the beach after getting tattooed?
Not until it's healed, usually two to four weeks. Avoid swimming and direct sun until then, which is why we suggest booking near the end of a beach trip.
What ID do I need as an international visitor?
A valid passport works. You must be at least 18.
Ready to plan yours? Send an appointment request with your dates, or text us at 323.395.0049.
