Los Angeles: Something for Everyone

Attractions

The Getty Museum: As someone who loves museums, I enjoyed the expansive and well-curated collections. A huge bonus are the gardens and breathtaking views from inside and outside the museum.

Autry Museum of the American West: Another world-class museum in LA what a collection a bit more local. As someone from the east coast, I learned a lot from this museum that showcases the multiple cultures and histories of the American West.

Griffith Park: Don't miss the observatory, but take some time to explore this massive park. There are plenty of trails to choose from. One of my favorites is a trail that loops through the old Griffith Park Zoo.

Olvera Street and El Pueblo: Explore and learn about some of the oldest places in Los Angeles. Don't miss Cielito Lindo, the birthplace of the taquito!

Venice Canals: Tucked away from the sights and sounds of the Venice Beach Boardwalk are the Venice Beach Canals. The charming canals and pedestrian bridges make for a peaceful stroll and a fun photo op.

Shops

Amoeba Records: A mecca for music and music lovers alike. You can get lost in here for hours and discover all types of new and old music.

Magnolia Park: One of my favorite places to explore is Magnolia Park in Burbank. Here, you'll find the most unique stores for all types of interests from movie memorabilia to Halloween to collectible toys, cars and more.

The Record Parlour: If you're into records, you'll love this place. They haul in all sorts of records from estates and collectors around the LA area.

Outside

Elysian Park: Located near Dodger Stadium, Elysian Park is a great place to have a picnic, get together and enjoy the trails with great views of the city.

Hollywood Reservoir Hike: An easy three-mile loop enjoyed by tourists and locals alike. There are fantastic views throughout, and it is my favorite place to get a photo near the Hollywood Sign.

Malibu Canyon Road and Point Dume: I highly recommend taking the drive out to Malibu. One of my favorite drives is taking Malibu Canyon Drive all the way down to the Pacific Coast Highway. The drive takes you through the canyon and ends looking down on the glistening Malibu beaches. Drive down the Pacific Coast Highway to my favorite beach in Southern California, Point Dume.

Grand Central Market: Taste flavor from around the world right in the heart of Downtown LA.

Kahuna Tiki: Hands-down our favorite neighborhood restaurant. A tiki bar and sushi restaurant all rolled (pun intended) into one.

El Compadre: Fantastic Mexican food and drinks in a lovely and unique atmosphere. I love their live music, too.

Tonga Hut: LA's first tiki bar and still one of the best the city has to offer.

Du Pars: Delicious pancakes conveniently located at the LA Farmer's Market.

Tommy's Burgers: Home of the chili cheeseburger and my favorite LA regional burger joint (sorry, In-N-Out).

Porto's: There's a reason why everyone in Los Angeles raves about Porto's. A family-owned Cuban cafe and bakery, you can't go wrong with anything on the menu here.

Idle Hour: A one-of-a-kind spot for a bygone era. Idle Hour is part whiskey bar, part restaurant, and part vintage roadside attraction. Don't miss the bulldog with a cigar in the back.