With DineLA kicking off this past week, I became inspired and decided to devote a mini-series of blogging to my journey through Los Angeles, and seeking out all the amazing things this city has to offer!! I’ve officially lived there for nine months, but have traveled for about 2 1/2 of those months. It’s seriously time to kick myself in the ass and start checking out new places. Join me in my search for the city’s best!
I live in Hollywood, and here are some things I’ve checked out so far:
This 160-acre park is located off of Fuller Avenue in Hollywood Hills. There’s free yoga offered daily (tips accepted), and three different trails (about 3 miles) with varying degrees of difficulty. I think the way down is a little shorter though. I’ve done the hike in roughly 45 minutes. My favorite time to go is an hour before the sunset so you can catch the daytime view, the sunset, and the nighttime view of LA. You can spot celebrities there, and all different types of people.
Don’t forget to bring your patience if you decide to park around here, make sure to read the signs to avoid tickets. Good luck finding a spot, too. I’ve actually taken a Lyft to Runyon and ran back home once.
Don’t forget your sunblock and water, too! But if you forget water or snacks, there’s a cooler full of waters, bananas, and snack bars for $1 each at the entrance. There’s a slot to put your cash in, and it’s based solely on the honor system!
People-friendly and pet-friendly- Just be aware of the selfies and dog poop.
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Yamashiro Restaurant and Yamashiro’s Farmer’s Market
Every Thursday between 5pm-9pm May 22nd through September 4th, there’s a farmer’s market right outside the Yamashiro restaurant. The views of the city are great, and there’s a ton of vendors selling fresh and pre-packaged foods. PRO-TIP– the restaurant makes a mean moscow mule, too.
There is a shuttle to the market if you park on Hollywood and La Brea for $2, or you can park there. I think it’s between $15-20 to park there.
Don’t forget to bring your own bags, cash, and an appetite! There’s food trucks there, too. And celebrity sightings are a given here!
The farmer’s market is great, but the restaurant is just ok. It’s an Asian fusion place with some really fancy things on the menu, but again, the food is just ok. I would go there at night for a drink and a good evening view of the city, though.
CLUBBING IN HOLLYWOOD
Although I live in a concrete jungle, I’m pretty happy with my backyard! It’s full of restaurants, bars, and clubs. I’m a hop, skip and a jump away from Lure, Create, Avalon, Warwick, AV, Playhouse, Emerson, Sayer’s Club, and Sound to name some. Check out Hollywood Club Crawl – meet new people and find new clubs! It’s $25 for four clubs, and you get to skip the line and there is no additional cover for you. Also try checking facebook and instagram for these clubs and connect with local promoters.
HOLLYWOOD FARMER’S MARKET
Open every Sunday- rain or shine from 8am-1pm. This farmer’s market stretches from Vine Street to Cahuenga Blvd. There’s a ton of fresh produce, here! They also have seafood, meats, packaged foods, and food trucks. This is right near by building, so it’s super convenient! Don’t forget to bring your bags and cash, too (but I think some places accept debit cards).
Other things to note: No dogs allowed in the market, but there is a dog sitting area by the Vine Street entrance. There’s also an information booth located on the corner of Selma Avenue and Ivar Avenue.