Los Angeles, the city of angels, is perhaps one of the most diverse, exciting cities in the country. It’s home of Hollywood, the Valley, the beach, the hills, and dreams and doers alike. In such a expansive city, there’s always something to see or do, no matter the weather or season. While there’s always so much going on, it can be hard to figure out what to see or do on a particular weekend or day. It’s a city where you can be nice a nice neighborhood and the next block you’re questioning your security. There’s so much to see and do, so let me help you decide what to do this weekend.
Los Angeles is full of tourist traps, but please ignore those for the most part. The Walk of Fame is only cool for the first time (or to put flowers on a recently-deceased celebrity’s star). There’s more to the city than cheesy Hollywood traps (i.e. Madame Tussauds, Rodeo Drive, Robertson Blvd, or Grauman’s Chinese Theater). The city is more than what you see on the surface. It’s full of art, culture, quirky neighborhoods, and great food. If you don’t have any plans this weekend, try one of these ideas.
1. Skip the Typical Venice Stuff and Go Straight to Abbot Kinney
Abbot Kinney is in Venice but it’s not full of tourists and medical marijuana shops. It’s a street filled with art, expensive shops, and trendy foods. You can go to the TOMS flagship store and spend $8 on a coffee, or go on the first Friday of the month to try a bunch of food trucks. Make sure to bring your camera because I’m sure you’re going to Instagram something ~trendy~ from this street.
2. Go to a Museum
I’m going to let you in on a little secret: museums are really cool. Grab some coffee, bring a film camera, and feel cultured as you stroll through LACMA, The Broad, MOCA, or the Getty. See some of the most famous works of art by Andy Warhol, Jackson Pollock, Frida Kahlo, and Takashi Murakami. Be prepared to feel like a cool art club kid.
3. Explore the Echo Lake and Silver Lake Area
Filled with trendy art stores, thrift shops, and coffee shops, there’s plenty to do. There’s a bunch of cute streets to explore on a weekday or weekend afternoon.
4. Go To Disneyland
Located 45 minutes outside the city, there’s no excuse not to visit the Happiest Place on Earth. It’s cheesy and touristy, but it’s very fun. Embrace being a little kid as you visit with your favorite characters, ride the class rides, and eat Mickey-shaped food.
5. Get a Great View from Griffith Observatory and Hike
Griffith not only gives you a great view of Los Angeles, but also, the Hollywood sign. You can learn about space inside the observatory, look through telescopes at night, or embark on a hike on one of the many hikes the observatory offers. You can even hike behind the Hollywood sign. Difficulty may vary.
6. Visit Main Street Santa Monica
Santa Monica is great for shopping, but not much else. Although many rave about 3rd Street Promenade, which is basically an outdoor mall, Main street has unique shops and restaurants. Go to Urth Café on Main street if you want to feel basic, or feel like a local and go The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.
7. Go to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery
Probably not the first place you think of going when you think of things to do in LA. However, there are always movies and concerts there. Cinespia puts on movie events monthly. In the past they’ve played Clueless, and in February Moulin Rouge and Eternal Sunshine of a Spotless Mind are playing.
8. Grand Central Market
Try different types of food in DTLA. I recommend Eggslut, mostly because I love the name. There’s plenty of different restaurants to try, so I’m sure you’ll find something you’ll love.
9. Melrose and The Melrose Trading Post
The Melrose Trading Post is open every Sunday at Fairfax High School. There’s a small entry fee ($2 I believe) that’s basically an outdoor flea market. There are vintage clothes, records, furniture, jewelry, and trinkets to fill the soul. You can find a lot of good deals if you bargain. You can also thrift shop down the street in Melrose, or go to the ~fancy~ part of the street and get over-priced coffee at Alfred’s, which began the whole “but first, coffee” trend.
10. Amoeba Music
Go back in time and find your favorite record, tape, or CD here. It has old and new music for every type of music-lover. It’s a real-life “Empire Records” that will bring you back to the good ‘ole days. (Can be found on Sunset Avenue).
11. Go to a Movie Premiere
Typical LA, but it's the best way to meet celebrities. I went to the Mockingjay Part 2 premiere and it was one of the best days I've ever had. You can refer to this list about upcoming premieres. Get there early and be prepared to wait..and wait...and wait. If you want to be at the front of the barricade you need to get there early and be prepared for rain, wind, or shine. And make sure to have plenty of phone battery for pictures! Please note that you probably won't get to go into the theater to watch the movie, but you can wait outside to meet the stars as they walk onto the red carpet.
If you have any favorite things to do in LA, comment below!
