What to do in L.A.

Los Angeles
Written By Andrea De La Torre
Urban Light installation at LACMA, an iconic Los Angeles landmark.

a fabulous getaway

Los Angeles is a city of contrasts — all glamour and sunshine, yet effortlessly laid-back. Every time I return, it feels like a completely new place. I still remember my first visit: it felt massive, touristy, and way too spread out. But once you start to understand its neighborhoods and uncover L.A.’s hidden magic, you can’t help but fall in love.

This last trip was one for the books. I went to two Dua Lipa concerts and even got the chance to chat with her and take a selfie — a night I’ll never forget. It still feels like a scene from a movie playing in my head.

This guide is a mix of discoveries from several L.A. trips. Each time I visit, I find something new to love. Most of the spots here are places I’ve personally explored and enjoyed, with a few friend recommendations and “still-on-my-list” gems sprinkled in.

I designed this guide to make exploring easier — filled only with places worth your time, so you don’t have to spend hours researching. These are top picks that deliver great design, unique experiences, and authentic L.A. vibes.

I hope it inspires your next adventure and helps you uncover your own favorite corners of the city.

 

Where to explore

1. Arts District
The Arts District is like the New York of L.A.—industrial, creative, and full of character. Street art colors every corner, and you’ll find some of the city’s best restaurants, design studios, and unique shops tucked inside old warehouses.

2. Beverly Hills
What most people picture when they think of Los Angeles—high-end shopping at Rodeo Drive, glamorous celebrities walking the streets, photo opportunities at Beverly Hills Garden Park, and so on. Go once to check it off the list.

3. Chinatown
A mix of old-school eats and trendy bars. Chinatown blends tradition with new creative energy—great food, good vibes, and plenty of spots worth a night out.

4. DTLA (AKA Downtown Los Angeles)
The core of Los Angeles, away from the glamour of it all. Has plenty of interesting places to discover, and it’s very close to the Arts District and Little Tokyo.

5. Los Feliz
Very similar to Silver Lake but a little rougher around the edges. It’s also filled with hipster restaurants, cool shops, and bookstores.

6. Silver Lake
Loved exploring this part of town and getting lost in the hilly neighborhoods. It’s casual and trendy, with lots of restaurants, bars, shops, and friendly people.

7. Venice Beach
Cool atmosphere with plenty of great restaurants and good shopping. For some Italian-inspired strolling, visit the Venice Canals.

8. West Hollywood
Fancy Los Angeles, you can find chic hotels, restaurants, and lots of nightlife.

Further out (Road trip potential)

• Malibu
• Santa Catalina Island
• Santa Barbara
• Los Padres National Forest
• Los Olivos
• Los Alamos
• Paso Robles
• Temecula
• Palm Springs
• Joshua Tree National Park

 

What to do

  • Griffith Park
    Go for a sunrise or sunset hike. Bird Sanctuary hike is a great dog-friendly trail.

  • Griffith Observatory
    Explore the museum and catch a planetarium show. The museum is free, but tickets for the show must be purchased on site.

  • ROW DTLA
    Industrial-chic meets dining and design. On Sundays, expect a giant food market—Smorgasbord.

  • LACMA
    Beautiful museum housing modern and contemporary art. The highly anticipated David Geffen Galleries are set to fully open in April 2026, with soft/public previews beginning summer 2025. Don’t miss the iconic Urban Light installation, and check out their live jazz nights on Fridays.

  • Bradbury Building
    A L.A. landmark since 1893, seen in films like Blade Runner—just stepping inside feels cinematic.

  • Grand Central Market
    Massive food hall with flavors from all over. Perfect for grazing your way through lunch.

  • Venice Beach
    Go for a jog along the boardwalk and feel the salty breeze.

  • Walk down Abbot Kinney
    A lively, stylish mile of shops, cafés, and great bites.

  • Climb Silver Lake stairs
    Wander the neighborhoods via hidden staircases. Don’t miss the colorful Micheltorena Stairs.

Griffith Park hike with panoramic views of Los Angeles at sunset

Explore Griffith Park for the best views in L.A.

Colorful street art in ROW DTLA, Los Angeles, surrounded by industrial buildings and shops

Get lost at ROW DTLA—plenty of shopping, eating, and exploring.

Exterior of LACMA museum in Los Angeles with contemporary architecture

A cultural day at LACMA, filled with art, jazz, iconic installations, and glowing lights.

Venice Beach storefronts in Los Angeles, colorful scene inspired by the Barbie movie

Relax and soak up the sun at Venice Beach—go for a jog, or explore the shops and cafés along Abbot Kinney.

 

Where to stay

  • kodō hotel (Arts District)
    A minimalist, Japanese-inspired retreat in a historic firehouse. Just nine thoughtfully designed rooms make it a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.

  • Downtown L.A. Proper (DTLA)
    Casual vibes, cozy beds, quirky boho décor, free morning coffee and tea, and a rooftop restaurant with city views.

  • The Hoxton DTLA (DTLA)
    The coolest hotel in Downtown LA—great smelling toiletries by Blank, glamourous rooftop pool and bar, and friendly staff.

  • Ace Hotel (DTLA)
    Casual boutique hotel located in the historic United Artists Theater, built-in 1927.

  • The Surfrider (Malibu)
    If you want a surfer vibe away from the city check this place out.

  • Silver Lake Pool and Inn (Silver Lake)
    Cool and low-key design hotel found in Silver Lake. It’s a quiet place to escape from the busyness of it all. Nice pool with views of Griffith Observatory. Laid-back staff, and very spacious rooms.

  • Gjelina Hotel (Venice Beach)
    A boutique gem steps from Venice Beach. Cozy rooms, curated local experiences, and access to the Gjelina Group’s famous restaurants make it a stylish home-away-from-home.

 

Where to eat

Breakfast

  • Eggslut (DTLA)
    A cult favorite for breakfast and brunch, Eggslut serves indulgent, gourmet egg sandwiches and comfort food with a twist. Perfect for a casual, tasty start to your day.

  • Bodega Park (Silver Lake)
    A Silver Lake favorite, Bodega Park is known for its gooey, mouthwatering burritos. Grab one to-go or savor it in this casual, laid-back spot full of local charm.

  • Sqirl (Silver Lake)
    Known for their playful branding and delicious jams. They have a takeaway counter, a cute shop, and a sit-down restaurant. Whatever you end up getting don’t forget the brioche with all the jams and ricotta.

  • Courage Bagels (Silver Lake)
    The most delicious bagels I’ve had in a while, and they’re worth the wait. Very unique since they’re a mix of Montreal and NY bagels, crispy on the outside and super soft and chewy on the inside. Walk up to the small takeaway window and admire the handwritten menu, don’t take too long deciding because there will most likely be a long line behind you waiting to order.

  • Gjusta (Venice Beach)
    A place with many options; a deli, bakery, cafe, and market. The beautiful pastry display makes it hard to choose what to accompany your coffee or tea with. Once you choose head towards the beautiful patio and enjoy your meal.

  • Great White (Venice Beach)
    Laid-back, beachy vibes, an open-air patio, and fantastic breakfast all day—from avocado toast to bowls—paired with excellent coffee.

Lunch

  • La Cha Cha Chá (Arts District)
    Chic rooftop restaurant that originated in Mexico City.

  • Amboy Quality Meats (Chinatown)
    Hidden in the middle of a Chinatown market, Amboy serves amazing, high-quality burgers—from smash-style to dry-aged patties—paired with unique, flavorful sauces.

  • Grand Central Market (DTLA)
    Lots of food options here, we were fans of Sarita’s Pupuseria.

  • Wild Living Foods (DTLA)
    Wide selection of colorful juices and healthy snacks.

  • Honey Hi (Echo Park)
    Casual and bright counter service breakfast and lunch spot.

  • Sushi Gen (Little Tokyo)
    Classic sushi in LA, expect to find a line outside.

  • All Time (Los Feliz)
    Relaxed neighborhood spot that transforms from morning cafe into evening dining.

  • Gracias Madre (West Hollywood)
    All vegan Mexican restaurant.

Dinner

  • Bestia (Arts District)
    Italian fare with local and organic ingredients located in an industrial setting.

  • Damian (Arts District)
    Fine Mexican dining with a hint of California by the one and only Enrique Olvera.

  • Kato (Arts District)
    A casual yet refined spot with top-notch service, Kato is a Michelin-starred Taiwanese restaurant recently named one of the Top 50 in the U.S. The food is delicious, the wines are excellent, and it offers a variety of unique Taiwanese beers you won’t find anywhere else—quality and elegance without any pretension.

  • Funke (Beverly Hills)
    Michelin-starred Italian in a stunning art deco space, known for handmade pasta, delicious pizza, and an extensive wine list.

  • Kismet (Los Feliz)
    Casual and delicious Mediterranean food in Los Feliz. Don’t miss the flaky bread paired with the feta!

  • Botanica (Silver Lake)
    Nestled within the beautiful Silver Lake hills. Grab some natural wine and sit on the patio.

  • Cafe Stella (Silver Lake)
    This cozy French cafe is highly recommended by locals.

  • Gjelina (Venice Beach)
    Amazing pizza and pasta with a very interesting mix of flavors in a laidback and cool environment.

  • RVR (Venice Beach)
    Modern izakaya with Japanese-inspired, vegetable-forward dishes, natural wines, and a stylish, laid-back vibe with a wraparound bar.

 

Where to drink

Coffee

Cocktails/beer

 

Where to shop

  • ROW DTLA (Arts District)
    Once American Apparel’s old warehouse, this spot mixes cool industrial vibes with great restaurants, indie clothing brands, wine shops, and design-forward home stores. Check out Bodega’s hidden store.

  • The Last Bookstore (DTLA)
    Very very big bookstore with lots to discover.

  • Skylight Books (Los Feliz)
    Small shop with a unique selection of books and magazines.

  • Markt (Silver Lake)
    A bright vintage shop in Silver Lake with lots of great finds.

  • Erewhon (Various locations)
    The most beautiful and most expensive grocery store you’ll ever set foot in.

  • Abbot Kinney Blvd. (Venice Beach)
    A trendy Venice Beach street lined with boutique shops, stylish cafes, and plenty of spots to wander and people-watch.

 
Andrea De La Torre
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