The Ultimate 24-Hour Guide to Exploring Los Angeles
Welcome to Los Angeles, a city that never fails to impress. LA offers everything from scenic parks to delectable food and iconic art installations. Whether you're an Angeleño looking for a new adventure or a traveler exploring the city for the first time, there are countless hidden gems to discover. This post will take you through some of the must-visit spots in LA, from Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook to the Urban Light sculpture at LACMA. So, grab your walking shoes and explore the City of Angels like never before.
Begin your day with a spectacular view of the entire basin, the Pacific Ocean, and the surrounding mountains at Baldwin Hills Scenic Overlook. Explore the restored native habitat and learn about the area's history while taking in the beauty of the state-of-the-art visitor center. While parking is free on the streets outside the Jefferson Blvd park entrance, be prepared to walk! Alternatively, official parking lots are open daily between 8 am and sunset but require a parking fee. However, you can enter for free with a California State Parks Pass.
After working up an appetite, head to République, located in Hancock Park. The building was built in 1928 by Charlie Chaplin and has been updated to its original brick tile and ironwork. Chefs Walter and Margarita Manzke have opened several critically acclaimed restaurants in LA, and République is no exception. Try their delicious pastries, French-inspired dishes, and innovative cocktails.
If you need a caffeine boost, Maru Coffee is a must-visit. With two locations in LA and a roastery, this Korean-American-owned coffee company takes pride in its high-quality beans grown and harvested from areas of high altitude. They roast their coffee in Arts District and have their first location in the Los Feliz neighborhood, which offers a cozy atmosphere where locals come to hang out.
LA is a taco lover's paradise, boasting a diverse and dynamic taco scene that is sure to impress. With a new wave of street food vendors creating drool-worthy dishes and traditional favorites found throughout the city, there is something for everyone. Whether you're craving the famous birria stands with thousands of followers or looking to discover hidden gems in Compton, LA has an amazing selection of vendors serving their communities with mouth-watering tacos.
Angel's Tijuana Tacos is undoubtedly one of the best taco stands in LA, boasting a wide array of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with delight. From the juicy al pastor topped with a hint of pineapple to the smoky grilled asada and flavorful braised meats like cabeza, Angel's Tijuana Tacos offers a range of delectable choices. Moreover, their vibrant salsas and tortillas made to order make Angel's the complete package. With 12 locations throughout North Hollywood and Long Beach, Angel's Tijuana Tacos is a one-stop shop for anyone who wants to experience the taste of LA's taco scene.
Next up is Leo's Taco Truck which has been around for 10 years and has opened nine trucks across East and West LA Their famous delicious al pastor tacos are better than ever, with a taste that will leave you wanting more.
Ave 26 Taco Stand is a must-try. The original location, quite literally off W Ave 26 and Artesian, is closed, but you can find them in Little Tokyo and Eagle Rock. They're known for their delicious tacos that are definitely worth trying. Don't miss out on the chance to quench your thirst and pair it with a tantalizingly refreshing agua fresca! Perfect for a sunny day, it's always sweet and hits the spot.
Ascot Hills Park is a must-see attraction in LA if you want a unique and extraordinary experience. The hidden gem, located just a few miles east of the city, provides a peaceful haven in a city that never sleeps. Situated just across from Woodrow Wilson Senior High School and is just a short drive from the 5 and 101 highways. If you're planning to stay after sunset, it's a good idea to park on Multnomah Street to avoid the park's closing gates. After that, take one of two paths to reach the top of the hill and enjoy an unobstructed view of downtown LA. Take the left path and move clockwise to avoid getting lost. As you ascend, you'll encounter an opening on the left side of the chain-link fence that frames the city's skyline perfectly, so don't be put off by it. You can take in the stunning view of the city without being disturbed by the city's hustle and bustle.
After taking in the breathtaking views, head to Bumsan Organic Milk Bar in Koreatown for a unique and unforgettable dessert experience. This ice cream shop uses organic farm products from Korea to create light and fluffy soft serve unlike any other in the city. The menu features a variety of flavors, including true milk, matcha, and pineapple mango. Still, my favorite has to be the taro milk tea & pink guava swirl. To further indulge your sweet tooth, go for their SoulMate and enjoy the croffle goodness. It's the perfect way to cap off a day of adventure!
Last on the list is Urban Light, an iconic sculpture by Chris Burden. Located just outside the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) entrance, Urban Light consists of 202 restored street lamps between the 1920s and 1930s. These lamps were once lit throughout Southern California, with some even from Portland, OR, and are now arranged in a nearby grid for visitors to admire. The lamps come in 16 styles originally commissioned for different neighborhoods and streets, with the Broadway Rose being the largest and most ornate. As the sun sets, the 309 LED bulbs are solar-powered and switch on, creating a spectacular glow. The glass globes come in round, acorn, and cone shapes, with elaborate floral and geometric patterns at the base. It's a magical sight that will leave a lasting impression on any visitor.
LA is a city that has something for everyone, whether it's the glitz and glamour of Hollywood, the natural beauty of its beaches and parks, or the vibrant cultural scene. While it may be impossible to see everything in just one day, these itineraries provide a great starting point for visitors looking to make the most of their time in LA. From iconic landmarks like the Hollywood Walk of Fame and Santa Monica Pier to hidden gems like the Bradbury Building and Grand Central Market, there's always something new to discover in the City of Angels.
