LA City Guide

Los Angeles. The City of Angels. Home of the Dodgers, notoriously bad traffic, A-list celebrity sightings, pop-up exhibits, and photo-worthy sunsets over the Pacific Ocean. What's not to love? We've made a list of places to check out on your next trip to the Los Angeles area.   

Silverlake is a popular location with many clubs, restaurants, and outdoor activities. Walk the Silver Lake Reservoir Loop, about 2 miles, and check out the colorful Micheltorena Stairs for a quick picture. Then hit up one of Silver Lake's many places to enjoy a drink, eat great food, meet up with friends, make new ones, or dance the night away! The Black Cat, Eagle LA, and Akbar are three popular ones in the area. 

• The Black Cat is a gastropub with unique cocktails, a seasonal menu, happy hour on the patio, and brunch on the weekends.
• Eagle LA is a gay bar that caters to the leather-wearing crowd and is known for its cheap beer nights, various fundraisers, and DJs that boost the atmosphere.
• Akbar is a welcoming and lively bar with a small dance floor and a well-stocked jukebox.

No trip to LA could be complete without a beach day! Head to Santa Monica to enjoy the sun and sand, a nice sea breeze, and people-watching. Will Rogers Beach, Los Angeles' unofficial LGBTQ+ beach, is a great place to meet and mingle. The Santa Monica pier is also worth visiting to stroll through the boardwalk filled with rides, games, street performers, and food stalls for a nostalgic feel.

Liberation Coffee House is part of LA's LGBTQ Center. It is staffed by graduates of the organization's Culinary Arts program, and the proceeds go directly back into the center. The colorful shop serves salads, sandwiches, pastries, and of course, a variety of coffee and tea drinks. The coffee house is near the Hollywood Walk of Fame, kitschy souvenir shops, the Hollywood Forever Cemetery, and Paramount studios. 

Another local favorite is hiking Runyon Canyon. The main trails range from 1.9 miles to 3.3 miles, depending on what you're up to. While hiking, you can get a glimpse of the Hollywood Sign, Santa Monica Bay on a clear day, and maybe even a celebrity! After a nice hike, head to The Abbey for brunch. The Abbey sets up an outdoor stage for its drag queen lineup every Saturday and Sunday, so plan accordingly because this is one brunch you want to be on time for!

Pack your bag, brave the traffic, and enjoy the iconic city!