By: Jessica Tierney & Maren Swanson • May 17th, 2014
There is so much to do in LA from the typical, the Griffith Observatory, to the hidden gems, like the Venice Canals Walkway. What’s great about LA is that you can always find something to do for a birthday (hi, mine is in four days) or a special occasion (did you forgot that anniversary? Again?). With all these special occasions and birthdays around every corner, I figured putting together a list of some really top notch spots in LA would make for a great article. But, do you know what would make it better? If I included the best place to go for drinks after you finish walking around LACMA. Your loved one, BFF, mom, etc. will love you forever after you take them to any of the spots on this list. Also, download the Uber app and you won’t even have to drive to any of these places (side note: There are times listed for how long it takes to get from the ‘top notch LA spot’ to the happy hour spot, but this is LA so times will change depending on traffic. Good luck with that.).
I know it’s a pretty typical, tourist-y thing to do in LA, but it’s kind of perfect. The views are stunning and if you like science you’re set. You can hike or not. Best for: date night, birthday’s, or hanging out with friends. It’s so versatile.
This one is only typical because everyone takes pictures with the lights outside. Whatever, okay? The lights are cool, but there’s a lot more to LACMA then the lights. Best for: A first date.
If you’re going for a basketball game or just hanging out at LA LiVE you’re in for a variety of things to do. There’s a lot to do in the vicinity so you won’t get bored. Best for: hanging out with friends/family.
Drinks: $3.50 Domestic Pints of Beer, $4.25 - $4.50 Imported Beers, $2 Off Wines by the Glass, $4.25 Well Drinks, $6 House Martinis Food: 1/2 Off Pizzas, Appetizers
One of the oldest and most famous theatres in Hollywood. Also, it’s playing Book of Mormon right now so you know you want to go see that. Best for: A family night or an anniversary.
The Venice Canals Walkway is like walking through Europe, in Los Angeles. I would suggest Google mapping “Venice Canals Walkway” because I’m crap at directions and all I can tell you is what is above as the address. Best for: A super romantic date night.
The views are spectacular, you can catch a variety of music acts and it has the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Check out the website for more information on shows, etc: http://www.musiccenter.org/ Best for: A sophisticated kind of date night. If you want to stick with the amazing views, then we suggest heading to Takami Sushi for sushi and one the most spectcular sunset views of Downtown Los Angeles. Also, head there on a Sunday and get half of all bottled sake and wine.
Happy Hour: Monday - Friday, 4pm - 7pm; Saturday & Sunday, 5pm to 7pm. Food: Half Price off all Bar Food Items.
Here’s the thing, nobody famous ever lived at this house, but it is, somehow, very famous. The views are incredible, but no cameras are welcome so you’ll just need to take snapshots in your head. It’s a steep trip into the Hollywood Hills, but if you book a late afternoon tour you’ll watch the sunset and see why the house is famous even though no one famous ever lived there. Book tickets at: www.stahlhouse.com Best for: A day trip with friends and family, photography lovers, and architecture fiends.
Here’s the thing, nobody famous ever lived at this house, but it is, somehow, very famous. The views are incredible, but no cameras are welcome so you’ll just need to take snapshots in your head. It’s a steep trip into the Hollywood Hills, but if you book a late afternoon tour you’ll watch the sunset and see why the house is famous even though no one famous ever lived there. Book tickets at: www.stahlhouse.com Best for: A day trip with friends and family, photography lovers, and architecture fiends.
Driving along the picturesque PCH is already awesome, but take beauty to a new level with a detour to the Getty Villa. To visit is free, you'll just have to make an appointment in advance and pay for parking, but it is totally worth it. Take a walk inside J. Paul Getty's old home a view the herb gardens, art, the famous pool and all around oppulence. Once you've worked up an appetite after walking the grounds, head to Gladstone's in Malibu to catch the sunset and a stellar happy hour. Best for: an artist's date or showing an out of town friend around.
