1. Explore the thrills dotted around the Santa Monica Pier

You'll find talented street performers balancing dishes on their heads, dancers showing off their best moves, and if you're lucky, you might find an adorable grandpa playing Titanic songs on his violin. Despite how cliché, I found all the lights and energy to be electrically intoxicating. Pro tip: ride the giant merry-go-round right at twilight and wait to walk on the beach as the sun sets.

2. Gain perspective while gazing at the skyline

One of the most humbling things is working hard for something. Find a place where you can climb to the top to view the sparkling skyline of Los Angeles. Even better, make the trip with a knapsack that holds a new novel to start once you finish your journey to the top. It puts a new meaning to such great heights.

3. Discover new tastes at Grand Central Market

Grand Central Market is like sampling a taste of everything LA has got to offer! The bustling market is packed full of people trying to grab a treat and savoring the delicious smells. It's got it all, from fresh fish to craft beer to delicate pastries. You won't regret stepping into this 1917 established blast from the past.

4. Enjoy a tour of The Walt Disney Concert Hall

Even if you don't actually go inside the iconic Walt Disney Concert Hall, walk past it to experience the breath-taking architecture. The grand, sweeping movement of the building is structurally unique. The interior is also impressive, containing Disney's famous acoustic auditorium. If you travel outside, take time to check out the amazing view of downtown.

5. Admire the unconventional artwork at The Broad

The Broad is well-known for the innovative exterior and the 250 original pieces on display inside. The art history buff in me felt like a kid in a candy shop. Most famous for featuring artists that work outside the box, the exhibit contains a table and chairs fit for a giant, a statue of Michael Jackson with his pet monkey, and so much more to get excited about.

6. Visit The Witch's House in Beverly Hills

If you're a fan of Halloween and all things quirky and spooky, check out the Spadena House that features Storybook architecture designed by Hollywood director Harry Oliver! Originally built in 1921, the quintessential house has been featured in the movie 'Clueless' and is well known in Beverly Hills as the Hansel and Gretel house. While you're in the area, take a walk down to the famous Beverly Hills Park to feel extra fancy.

7. Venture around Venice Beach

Venice Beach is like a magical world where everything is amplified, the sounds, the colors, the artwork, and the energy is hypnotic. One of my favorite memories from this trip comes from renting the bikes and taking off down the strip, viewing the artists working on murals and riding out to the crashing waves right at sunset. If you have a GoPro, hook it up to your handlebars!

8. Stuff your face at Smorgasburg

If you're a foodie, you will NOT want to miss America's largest open-air food market! 100 local vendors pack in to cook their specialty dishes and serve to as many as 20,000-30,000 people on Sunday afternoons. You can't find food this delicious all in the same place anywhere else! Just make sure you don't eat anything the night before so you have plenty of room to try a little of everything!

9. Tromp around Little Tokyo

Little Tokyo is a cultural delight. It has beautiful lanterns dotted everywhere, amazing food on every corner, and tons of traditional Lucky cats and trinkets to charm all! Inner 13-year-old weeb in me felt like I was walking through the streets of Japan as I explored the Weller Court Light Tunnel, manga stores and tried the fresh sushi. The Japanese American National Museum is also worth a visit when you're in the area!

10. Appreciate the Arts District