Los Angeles: Beyond the Hollywood Sign

Los Angeles is a city of contrasts. Think sun-drenched beaches, eclectic neighborhoods, and a rich food scene that blends cultures from around the world. While many first-time visitors flock to the Walk of Fame and Universal Studios, those in the know seek out the city’s lesser-explored corners for a more authentic and immersive experience. Whether it’s uncovering a tucked-away taco stand, watching the sunset from an underrated viewpoint, or escaping the city for a day trip along the coast, this guide takes you beyond the usual LA itinerary into the hidden side of the City of Angels.

Best Time to Visit

Los Angeles is a year-round destination, but each season offers something different.

• Spring (March-May): Ideal for pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and wildflower blooms in the hills.

• Summer (June-August): Expect hotter temperatures and beach crowds, but long daylight hours and outdoor events. Best time for coastal activities.

• Fall (September-November): One of the best times to visit—mild weather, fewer tourists, and clear skies for sunset hikes.

• Winter (December-February): LA’s “winter” is mild, making it a great escape for those looking to avoid colder climates. Great for whale watching and visiting Griffith Observatory without the summer haze.

For the best mix of good weather and fewer crowds, September through November is ideal.

How to Get Around

• Driving: While LA is known for its traffic, renting a car gives you the flexibility to visit beaches, canyons, and off-the-beaten-path spots. Parking is easier in residential neighborhoods, but challenging in tourist-heavy areas like Hollywood and Downtown. Always check for street sweeping signs to avoid getting a ticket.

• Public Transport: The Metro Rail and Bus system are improving but still limited. The Metro B Line (Red Line) is useful for getting between Downtown LA, Hollywood, and Universal Studios, while the E Line (Expo Line) connects Downtown to Santa Monica Beach.

• Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are widely available and a good alternative to avoid parking headaches in busy areas.

• Biking: The Strand Bike Path (Marvin Braude Trail) is perfect for cycling along the coast from Venice to Manhattan Beach.


Day 1: Eastside LA

Start your trip in Los Feliz and Silver Lake, two neighborhoods where LA’s creative energy shines through in cozy cafés, quirky bookstores, and an effortlessly cool crowd. Skip the long lines at influencer-famous spots and grab coffee at Maru Coffee, a local favorite for its perfectly balanced pour-overs. For breakfast, head to Sqirl—yes, it’s well-known, but the hype is real. Their ricotta toast with jam is a must, and the cozy back patio offers a quiet escape from the bustle.

Spend the late morning exploring Skylight Books, an independent bookstore with a curated selection of local authors and art books. If you’re into vintage shopping, SquaresVille and Raggedy Threads in Echo Park have an eclectic mix of second-hand finds. From there, walk over to Echo Park Lake—a spot locals love for its scenic views and pedal boat rentals. Grab a snack at Tacos 1986, a no-frills taco stand serving up some of the best adobada tacos in the city.

By late afternoon, head to El Matador Beach in Malibu for sunset. Unlike Venice Beach or Santa Monica, El Matador’s rugged cliffs and dramatic rock formations offer a more secluded, cinematic experience. Bring a picnic or stop at Broad Street Oyster Co. for fresh seafood and an impressive lobster roll.

Parking Tip: Street parking in Silver Lake and Los Feliz is free but limited. Arrive early or use ride-sharing for convenience.

Day 2: The Westside

Start your morning with breakfast at Gjusta, a deli-style bakery in Venice that serves flaky croissants, house-cured lox, and the perfect cappuccino. Take your food to go and walk along the Venice Canals, a quiet, hidden oasis that feels miles away from the crowded boardwalk. If you want a morning surf session, head to El Porto Beach in Manhattan Beach, a local favorite for clean waves and fewer tourists.

For lunch, drive up the Pacific Coast Highway to Malibu Farm Pier Café, where organic ingredients meet ocean views. If you’re looking for something even more low-key, Neptune’s Net is a legendary roadside seafood shack where you can enjoy fresh shrimp with a view of the Pacific.

Spend your afternoon at Point Dume State Beach, a spot often overlooked in favor of Malibu’s busier beaches. The short hike up the bluff gives you panoramic views of the coastline, and if you’re lucky, you might spot dolphins or migrating whales. Stay for golden hour, when the light turns warm and the waves glow under the setting sun.

Parking Tip: Venice Beach has paid parking lots ($5-$20). Free parking is available in residential areas, but be mindful of permit signs.


Day 3: Downtown LA

Downtown LA (DTLA) is an ever-evolving neighborhood where historic architecture meets contemporary art, and old-school taco joints sit next to Michelin-starred restaurants. Start with a latte at Verve Coffee Roasters, then wander through the historic Bradbury Building, a stunning 19th-century landmark with ornate ironwork and a skylit atrium. Just around the corner is The Last Bookstore, a dream for book lovers, with hidden rooms and a tunnel made entirely of books.

Lunch calls for Grand Central Market, where you can try everything from Eggslut’s cult-favorite breakfast sandwich to authentic Thai noodles at Sticky Rice. If you’re craving something uniquely LA, head to Guerilla Tacos, where the flavors are bold, and the menu changes daily based on what’s fresh.

For sunset, skip Griffith Observatory (which gets packed) and head to Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook instead. A short hike leads to a stunning panoramic view of the LA skyline, stretching all the way to the ocean on a clear day.

Parking Tip: Street parking in DTLA is metered but free after 8 PM in most areas. Consider parking at a Metro station and taking the train in.


Day 4: A day trip beyond LA

Before heading out of town, grab a classic breakfast burrito from Cofax—a local go-to for the perfect combination of crispy hash browns, fluffy eggs, and smoky chorizo wrapped in a warm tortilla. For your final adventure, take a day trip to Ojai, a charming town about 90 minutes north of LA. Known for its laid-back vibe, small-batch wineries, and citrus groves, it’s the perfect place to unwind before heading back home.

Spend the afternoon at Bart’s Books, the world’s largest outdoor bookstore, then drive up to Meditation Mount for one last breathtaking sunset. If you have time, stop by Topa Mountain Winery for a glass of locally produced rosé.

Parking Tip: Free parking is widely available in Ojai. Downtown has street parking near restaurants and shops.