Elevated City Guides: LA

Written By Elevated.

Los Angeles is Southern California’s sprawling metropolis, known as the birthplace of the film and television industry. With near perfect weather all year round, incredible dining options & nightlife and access to the beach, this city is one of our absolute favorite travel destinations.

Where to stay: Every neighborhood in LA has a little bit different vibe depending on what you’re looking for. We always stay in West Hollywood and this most recent trip loved the location and rooms at Le Parc on Melrose.

  • West Hollywood - near tons of good bars and restaurants

  • Santa Monica - great for first time visitors

  • South Bay (Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, and Redondo Beach) - if you want sun, sand, surf

  • Downtown (DTLA) - if you don’t want to rent a car

 
 

Where to eat: If you’re ready to spend a little extra $$:

  • Horses: the best meal I’ve had in recent memory. Don’t skip the Caesar salad.

  • The Ivy: beautiful brunch in a garden setting, specializing in seafood dishes

  • Elephante: super fun indoor outdoor vibe in Santa Monica

  • El Carmen: This place is a vibe. Not to mention incredible tacos and margs

  • Craig’s: If you don’t get a dirty martini and order the Tinx dessert, you’re not doing it right.

  • Bicyclette: we didn’t make it here but came highly recommended from a local

  • Osteria Mozza: (same as above)

If you’re looking to save a little, the street food scene is for you:

Where to drink: 

  • EP&LP Rooftop

  • Sunset Towers

  • Blue Collar

  • Melrose Umbrella Co

  • Juniper in the 1 Hotel

  • Craig’s (martinis)

  • Alfred (coffee)

  • Barney’s (for sports watching)










What to do: 

  • Santa Monica: visit the famous Santa Monica pier for the best people watching or rent bikes and cruise along the beach

  • Venice Beach: there is no place quite as vibrant and eclectic as Venice. Take a few minutes here to watch the skateboarders in action at the skate park then head over to Muscle beach to watch the guys get their pump on. If you have time, stroll through the homes on the canals.

  • Hike Runyon Canyon: 10 min drive from West Hollywood, this expansive network of trails will be busy but not crowded and worth the views (including the Hollywood sign!)

  • Griffith Observatory

  • Laugh Factory

 
 

Happy Travels!

XO

Elise

Elevated.
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