Intro…
Overview
Los Angeles is a vast city in Southern California and serves as the hub of the country’s film and television industry. Close to the renowned Hollywood sign, studios like Paramount Pictures, Universal, and Warner Brothers provide tours that explore behind the scenes. Along Hollywood Boulevard, the TCL Chinese Theatre showcases the handprints and footprints of famous actors, the Walk of Fame honors countless notable figures, and vendors sell maps leading to the homes of various stars.
* Population: 3.821 million (2023)
* Area: 1,299 km²
* Area codes: 213, 323, 310, 424, 818, 747, 626
* City designation: May 23, 1835
* Elevation: 233 ft (71 m)
What is Los Angeles famous for?
Los Angeles is well-known for its Hollywood celebrities, the television and film industries, and beautiful beaches, all contributing to its status as a favored travel destination. Refer to our guide below to discover what highlights Los Angeles has to offer. It includes helpful advice on maximizing your LA trip along with recommendations for popular tourist sites and destinations, such as…
The Ultimate Local’s Travel Guide to Los Ângeles:
Los Angeles can often appear as a vast, hectic city, but once you discover the right places to go and activities to engage in, its true charm begins to unfold. This guide provides the inside knowledge on where to dine, socialize, discover, and immerse yourself in LA like a genuine Angeleno.
1. The Authentic LA Culinary Scene
Los Angeles is a gastronomic haven with an incredible variety of ethnic dishes, fusion trends, and popular dining spots. Here are the local favorites:
Tacos & Mexican Street Fare:
• Guerilla Tacos (Arts District): A transformative approach to tacos, featuring creations like sweet potato and crispy shrimp.
• La Taqueria de Anda (Multiple Locations): Renowned for some of the finest al pastor in LA.
• El Huarache Azteca (South LA): Famed for huaraches (thick corn tortillas garnished with meat, beans, and cheese).
Breakfast & Brunch:
• Sqirl (Silver Lake): Celebrated for creative brunch offerings, such as ricotta toast and sorrel pesto rice bowls.
• The Griddle Cafe (Hollywood): Known for its massive pancakes and large servings.
• Cliff’s Edge (Silver Lake): Upscale brunch in a cozy and romantic atmosphere with an outdoor garden patio.
Classic LA Burgers:
• In-N-Out Burger (Various Locations): A beloved classic – straightforward yet delicious.
• Burger Lounge (Brentwood, Downtown LA): For a top-notch experience with grass-fed beef.
Japanese Cuisine:
• Katsuya (Hollywood): Trendy sushi and Japanese dishes, famous for its delectable rolls and stylish interior.
• Daikokuya (Little Tokyo): Ramen that locals highly recommend, featuring rich broths and tender pork belly.
Healthy & Organic:
• Café Gratitude (Venice): Vegan and organic offerings, including “I Am Thriving” Buddha bowls.
• The Butcher’s Daughter (Venice): A fashionable eatery that emphasizes vegetables in a trendy farmhouse ambiance.
2. Activities to Experience LA Like a Local
Neighborhoods You Must Explore:
• Echo Park: A vibrant, artistic district filled with charming coffee shops, bars, and a lovely lake for paddle boarding.
• Highland Park: Revitalized but still maintains a hipster vibe, ideal for boutique shopping, contemporary art galleries, and tacos.
• Venice Beach: While the boardwalk can attract tourists, venture a few blocks away for a peaceful and unique Venice experience. Check out the Venice Canals or stroll along Abbot Kinney Blvd for fashionable shops and cafes.
• Silver Lake: Recognized for its indie culture, vintage stores, and energetic music scene. Grab a coffee at the iconic Intelligentsia and take a walk around the Reservoir.
Iconic Sites Without the Crowds:
• The Getty Center (Brentwood): The architecture and stunning vistas alone justify the visit, plus the art collections are exceptional.
• Griffith Park: Avoid the crowded observatory and instead hike up the Mount Hollywood Trail in Griffith Park for stunning panoramic views of LA.
• The Original Farmers Market at The Grove: An excellent destination for food, shopping, and people-watching without the typical “mall” vibe.
Discover LA’s Artistic Landscape:
• The Broad Museum (Downtown LA): Free admission (but reservations are recommended) to view contemporary art by artists like Jeff Koons and Yayoi Kusama.
• Hauser & Wirth (Downtown LA): One of LA’s most exciting modern art galleries, frequently showcasing immersive exhibitions.
• Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA): The iconic “Urban Light” installation is a must-visit, along with numerous fantastic exhibits available.
3. Outdoor Activities in LA
Hiking & Nature Areas:
• Runyon Canyon: An iconic hiking spot in LA that provides breathtaking views, but aim to arrive early to beat the crowds.
• Topanga State Park: A less-known treasure in the Santa Monica Mountains featuring over 36 miles of trails and a genuine sense of escaping the urban landscape.
Beaches:
• Malibu’s El Matador Beach: More remote and picturesque compared to other Malibu beaches, known for its striking rock formations.
• Abalone Cove (Palos Verdes): A serene, quiet location with tide pools and stunning cliffside vistas.
• Santa Monica Beach: Not the place for solitude, but perfect for enjoying the ambiance – an ideal location for sunsets, watching people, and just relaxing.
Skate Parks:
• Venice Skate Park: One of the world’s most renowned skate parks, located right by the shore.
• Beverly Hills Skate Park: If you’re seeking a less busy spot, this hidden gem in Beverly Gardens Park is worth a visit.
4. Nightlife: Experiencing LA After Dark
Bars and Lounges:
• The Roosevelt Hotel (Hollywood): A vintage favorite featuring the famous Tropicana Pool and a lively atmosphere.
• The Speakeasy at Perch (Downtown LA): A cozy rooftop bar with a Parisian touch and amazing views of the cityscape.
• Tiki-Ti (Silver Lake): A whimsical tiki bar with potent cocktails and a dedicated customer base.
Live Music & Dancing:
• The Echo (Echo Park): A legendary venue showcasing indie and alternative bands.
• The Wiltern (Koreatown): One of LA’s most stunning concert venues, ideal for catching both well-known acts and hidden treasures.
• Tear the Roof Off at Grand Star Jazz Club (Chinatown): Experience a classic LA jazz scene.
5. Shopping and Unique Places to Explore
• Melrose Avenue: The prime destination for fashionable boutiques, unique vintage stores, and captivating street art (make sure to see the pink wall at Paul Smith).
• Abbot Kinney Blvd (Venice): A boutique paradise featuring everything from upscale design shops to eco-friendly apparel and quirky cafés.
• Santee Alley (Fashion District): A labyrinth of discount shops offering everything from imitation fashion to budget-friendly accessories.
6. Transportation Advice:
• Ride Shares (Uber/Lyft): Given LA’s vastness, public transit can be hit or miss. Ride-sharing apps are a must for getting around.
• Metro Rail: The LA Metro has seen significant expansion lately, and it’s an excellent alternative to avoiding traffic. Be sure to try out the Expo Line, connecting downtown to Santa Monica.
• Renting a Bike/Scooter: In areas such as Venice, Santa Monica, and downtown, using a bike or electric scooter rental is a fantastic way to navigate.
Final Thoughts:
Los Angeles can feel daunting for visitors, but once you familiarize yourself with the area, it transforms into a lively city brimming with hidden treasures and local favorites. Whether you’re a culinary enthusiast, an outdoor explorer, a music aficionado, or a culture lover, LA has something to offer everyone. Discover like a local, appreciate the diversity, and reveal the city’s genuine allure.