This article was written by The Zillennial Zine’s spring editorial intern Eli Casas. Find them on Instagram at @elicasasnow. If you would like to share an article with The Zillennial, send us an email at thezillennialzine@gmail.com.
I have lived in Los Angeles County my whole life. Fun fact: Did you know there are over 80 cities that makeup LA County? Each differs from the next, but that means more to explore and enjoy. Whether you’re an LA Native or someone planning a trip out here, I’ll share all the demure spots worth checking out! Consider this your LA travel guide!
Foodies In LA
What’s more essential than food? Good food! Depending on your craving, you can visit several restaurants in LA. Want something with a view? Book a reservation at Castaway, where the scenery provides a dining experience with a phenomenal view. Making a reservation takes less than 5 minutes, and they even have a 15-minute grace period in case you’re running late as you explore LA. The dinner menu has diverse options, such as the raw bar, salads, a charcuterie bar, steaks, salmon, roasted chicken, veggies with tofu, various sides, and many desserts. However, if you go during brunch or lunch, the menu contains items such as quiche, fried chicken with waffles, french toast, and more. You can expect different alcohol options, gluten-free, and vegan choices.
Speaking of choices, if you’re looking for something more casual with a bit of history, you can head over to Mel’s Drive-In, and don’t worry, you can pick from a few locations. For over 75 years, Mel’s Diner has provided delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals from all over LA and San Francisco. Fun fact, some celebrities have dined at Mel’s Diner, and you can see their photographs hanging on the walls. What makes this diner a unique experience is the jukebox that plays all the hits, the booths, and the overall atmosphere. You’ll find french toast, old-fashioned buttermilk pancakes, veggie omelets, the Famous Melburger, salads, an assortment of sides, meatloaf, and much more on the menu. If you make your way down there, try out the milkshakes. They even have a vegan option!
Just in case you’re looking for vegan options. Doomies is located in Hollywood, perfect if you’re looking for a place to grab dinner! You can experience fried chicken, mac n cheese, burgers, breakfast platters, and vegan milkshakes here. Ironically, right next door, you’ll find NextMex, which serves vegan Mexican food. Their menu ranges from tacos, burritos, nachos, quesadillas, nacho fries, and more. Bonus points if you visit Dear Bella Creamery in the same shopping center. They offer plant-based ice cream as well as other frozen desserts.
Making our way back to other restaurants with a view, you can dine at The Odyssey, and with some luck, you may find it possible to book a same-day reservation! You can expect a handful of steak options, sides, salads, seafood, and more. Additionally, their menu expands during brunch and lunch hours. What does that mean? Mimosas, as well as other special menu items! Plus, you can see the San Fernando Valley from up there!
If you prefer an ocean view, check out Whiskey Red’s in Marina Del Rey. Enjoy their enticing starters, seafood dishes, cocktails, draft beers, and other inviting meals. Nothing like food, drinks, fire pits, and an ocean view!
I saved one of my favorites for last! Granville offers a gourmet experience for dine-in or take-out. They strive to provide quality goods without the flashy aspect of gourmet food. The versatile menu includes pasta, salads, soups, sides, burgers, salmon, steak, chicken, and tasty appetizers. In addition to food, they offer an assortment of cocktails and wines.
Caffeine Stop
I know what you’re thinking, “What about coffee?” Don’t worry. I know coffee is essential, too. Here are a few spots worth checking out in LA.
Established in 2013, Alfred Coffee has locations in different areas of LA County. Although most commonly known for their World-Famous Iced Vanilla Latte, they also offer matcha, cold brew, and teas. If you’re a bagel fan, their whipped cream cheese and everything bagels are phenomenal.
If you’re more of an avid coffee drinker looking for a coffee shop with unique blends, hit up Philz Coffee. If you’re a mint lover, you might like the Iced Mint Mojito with pieces of mint and a creamy taste. On the other hand, if you’re craving something sweet, the Honey Haze is a strong cold brew blend with honey, perfect if you’re looking for a cold drink. Oh! And the almond croissant is worth checking out. Overall, their coffee blends offer a unique experience.
For a more food-immersive coffee experience, you might find Hilltop Coffee + Kitchen a better fit. There are a few locations in LA. The menu includes breakfast options like bowls, sandwiches, burritos, sides, pastries, and caffeinated drinks.
Nature Baddies
LA is known for its sunny climate, so if you are in the mood for an outdoorsy day, there are several hiking trails and botanical gardens.
For example, Fryman Canyon is three miles long and contains greenery, dirt, and a spectacular view!
There’s also Solstice Canyon, in Malibu, a hike that leads to a waterfall. Interestingly enough, there are different trails to choose from.
If you’re more interested in relaxing, check out the Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden. They have monthly events and different exhibits.
Artsy Peeps
This one is for the artsy people who enjoy arts and crafts because sometimes you just want to create something fun.
I recommend you swing by Color Me Mine, which has different pottery pieces you can make. No, seriously. You paint the ceramic pieces to your taste, and the studio handles the finishing touches. Then you pick them up when they’re done! Good Dirt LA offers pottery classes for beginners, themed courses, creative time slots for those with experience, and private group classes.
Ouuu, and if you’re looking for something more chill, you can also check to see if Paint & Sip Studio LA has any classes available while you’re out here!
Museums
For the times when you just want to admire something cool, museums are the best!
Want to see Dinosaurs? The Natural History Museum has a Dinosaur Hall! It also features the African and North American Mammals exhibit, among others.
The Los Angeles Museum of Love is an excellent choice for couples interested in connecting with each other through activities and more.
Another gem worth visiting is the Petersen Automotive Museum. Here, you can view different cars with unique features on display.
Places To Dance
If the nightlife is calling and you feel like dancing, there is no place to go like West Hollywood! Rocco’s offers food, a dance floor, and indoor and outdoor seating. Let’s not forget The Abbey, a gay bar in Weho with food and drinks and a large dance floor. There is also the iconic Hamburger Mary’s, where you can expect drag queens to appear!
As an introvert, I understand that sometimes dancing in the club can be intimidating, but taking a class is a fun way to jam out with other individuals who love dancing! Playground LA offers plenty of dance classes, which are easy to sign up for online.
On A Budget
If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly food option, stop at In-N-Out for a double-double with some French fries. They even have decent grilled cheese and other secret menu options.
You can also go see a movie at the Paramount Drive-In Theatres. This is a great way to get fresh air and enjoy a film in a more flexible setting.
For a unique and super budget-friendly adventure, visit Angels Flight Railway. This Los Angeles landmark has existed since the early 1900s.
Like all good things, this concludes your LA Travel Guide, at least for now. I hope you enjoy your time exploring LA!
Did you enjoy this LA travel guide? Share your experience with us in the comments below!
Leave a Reply