Your Guide to Exploring LA

As Angelenos we’re fortunate to live in a vacation destination, but the last year has stirred a sense of wanderlust in us all. Until borders and destinations open back up fully, these are a handful of our favorite experiences we can have right here in our own backyard. 

PHOTOS BY: @cholpak

Manhattan Beach

Bike along The Strand, aka the Marvin Braude Bike Trail. The 22-mile trail from Pacific Palisades to Torrance involves equal parts people watching and postcard-worthy scenery, but it’s easy enough to drop in from any beach city. Don’t have a bike? It’s never a bad time to pick one up at Tokyobike or rent a cruiser at any of the beachside shops.

Venice

Scratch your itch for Italy with a stroll through the Venice Canals. Just a short jaunt from Venice Beach, you can meander through the walkways and unique bridges that span all four canals. Don’t forget your camera, as the picturesque reflections and colorful houses provide plenty of opportunities for beautiful backdrops. If you really want to level up your Instagram pics, bring the kids dressed in their best from OMAMImini.

PHOTOS BY: @lifeof_riley + @cholpak

Pasadena

After more than a year of being closed, the Rose Bowl Flea Market is back. With over 2,500 vendors and a history spanning 50+ years, this shopping experience is worth a trip to Pasadena on the second Sunday of every month. Regular admission is $10 and starts at 9am for the general public. Don’t forget to pack a reusable tote like this one from Poketo to bring home all your finds.

San Marino

Spanning about 130 acres, the grounds at The Huntington feature 16 themed gardens for you to get lost in. With everything from a desert garden to a Shakespeare Garden, you’re sure to find a few that speak to you. It’s perfect for a day trip to a truly transportive experience, but remember that all visitors must reserve tickets in advance online. While wandering around, keep the sun out of your eyes in style with a Jonny Cota denim fisherman hat. 

PHOTOS BY: @cholpak @michelleinfusino

Silverlake

There’s no better way to explore Silverlake than on a scavenger hunt to find all the hidden staircases. Since many are painted by local artists it doubles as a walking tour of the city’s street art too. Plus with all the stops along the way, you can easily stop by whatever cafes, restaurants, and hidden gems you discover. Not quite ready for all the steps? A few classes at Coreology should help you tackle each one with grace.

Downtown

As perhaps the most efficient way to explore a multitude of places in a single day, Downtown remains the culture hub of Los Angeles. And at the edge of the Arts District, ROW DTLA remains the best destination for all things for shopping, dining, and playing. Pick up some refined spirits from Flask & Field, transport yourself far away through the unique smells of Scent Bar, bring a sense of East Coast style to your home at Hawkins New York, or grab a bite of Japanese comfort food from the iconic Pikunico, or a taste of the ocean at Rappahannock Oyster Bar.