GO Do
California Institute of Abnormalarts (CIA)This place has everything: kitsch, burlesque, and even a mummified clown fully decked out in his best clown costume and makeup. Come for the local bands, stay for the technicolor fever-dream decor. |
VDL Research HousEAlso known as the Neutra Studio and Residences, this beautiful house was built in 1932 by the modernist architect Richard Neutra. Although they're open only on Saturday afternoons, the guided tour alone is well worth the $15 admission fee. |
MelTdown ComicsMeltdown carries popular titles as well as indie comics, and more collectibles than you can shake an Infinity Gauntlet at. At the far back of the building, the "Nerdmelt Showroom" hosts various events every week, such as comedy shows and EarWolf podcast tapings. |
Amoeba MusicInstead of interrupting your favorite artist while they're at lunch, try rubbing shoulders with talent at this musicians' favorite haunt. Amoeba buys and sells music and movies, and host weekly free live shows by veterans and up-and-comers alike. |
Hollywood Forever CemeteryAll sorts of famous people are buried here, including Johnny Ramone (note his statue pictured above). Protip: no need to pay $5 for an official map—just google the locations of celebrity graves. |
Bronson CaveYou may remember seeing this perennially popular filming location in that enduring classic SyFy original, Mega Shark Versus Crocosaurus (2010). This "cave," actually a manmade tunnel, is located inside Griffith Park. |
go Eat
LOCALITheir "Baaadasss Breakfast Sandwich" was one of Zagat's Top 10 Best New Sandwiches in LA 2014. Locali's convenient offerings will satisfy vegetarians and even all you hardcore meat-eaters. |
JitladaFood critic Jonathan Gold placed Jitlada at #30 on his 101 Best Restaurants of 2015! The Coco Mango Salad is superb, but no one will judge if you decide to stick with pad thai (Jitlada's is super legit). |
Blu Jam CafeAdd this vegan and gluten-free friendly restaurant to your must-brunch list. Like many LA spots, their menu changes seasonally. Be sure to take home a jar of their famous homemade jam. |
MASHTI MALONE'S
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Trejo's Tacos... Yes, THAT Danny Trejo. Sure, the menu was designed to appeal to hipster gueros, and it’s definitely more expensive than most taco trucks. But have you really visited LA if you haven't tried one of Tio Machete’s tacos? |
Doomie's Home Cookin'Doomie's serves all the greasy, deep-fried food you used to love before you went vegan. VICE Magazine describes their food as "so addictive it may as well be a Breaking Bad box set wrapped in heroin." |
Go Sleep
Mama ShelterTheir rooftop view shows you everything from bustling Downtown LA to the Hollywood sign. Please note: some areas of this historic building are not easily accessible for guests using wheelchairs. |
Villa Delle StellEWith only five suites and one cottage, this place is super exclusive (so remember to book very early). It's pricey, but the posh rooms and quiet location will make you feel like Hollywood royalty. |
Orange Drive HostelBudget travelers rejoice! Even with its central location (walking distance to the Hollywood Walk of Fame), this hostel is affordable, clean, and comfortable as well. |