I love LA. I can never get enough of LA, so when it came down to choosing a college after high school, I made SURE that it wasn’t a place that was too far, easy to commute but still distant enough to feel like a fresh start. Choosing UCSB was the perfect balance between moving away from home, but still remaining close enough.
This was extremely important to me, since growing up in Los Angeles made me realize the vast amount of culture and diversity around me, and frankly, I didn’t want to live far from the place that feels like home.
Although LA is packed with immense culture and identity, it’s also home to iconic attractions and hidden gems. I’ve gathered my favorite spots around LA, all in one place, creating an ideal weekend itinerary where you can experience culture, food, and have a feel of the laid-back vibes that LA has to offer.
Start strong at the Natural History Museum! Located in Exposition park, it’s home to vast exhibits that aim to “Tell the stories of LA and the world.” With EBT you can get in with a discount, which comes in clutch as a college student. I remember going with my hometown friends after school and just exploring the fun exhibitions that they had. Some of the displays and exhibitions are so realistic that they make you feel like you are actually in prehistoric times.
Next, we can’t pass up the chance to visit an iconic LA beach. Although there are many pretty beaches in LA, I would probably skip Santa Monica or Venice Beach if you’re looking to genuinely spend time on the sand. Don’t get me wrong, those beaches are nice, but not exactly for having a chill time at the beach. You won’t catch me getting into the waters of Santa Monica or Venice.
On the other hand, it is nice to walk around these beaches and see all the beautiful art that they have to offer. There are artists like spray painters, dancers, and artisanal vendors along the streets. Even though I wouldn’t enjoy actually taking a swim in these beaches, I would enjoy going to experience the rich culture and the evening scene they offer.
Unfortunately, we’ve reached the end of day 1 of our Los Angeles itinerary. So, to end the day strong, just like we started, I would suggest attending a concert. I strongly believe that concerts are so much fun, no matter your music taste. Whether you’d like to end your night with your fav hype artist or your best chill RnB artist, concerts are always fun! Although I haven’t been to many because of a busy schedule and living in two places at once, I love concerts. The best part of LA is that there’s always going to be some around the area, which makes it super convenient to attend a concert spontaneously.
SUNDAY – DAy 2
Good Morning! It’s now a sunny Sunday morning in LA. Before we get the day started, we obviously have to fuel ourselves for this busy day.
At the farmers’ market found near The Grove, you can find one of my favorite breakfast spots called Du-pars. I most enjoy going with my mom, it’s one of our favorite Sunday traditions when I’m home. The Farmers’ Market is probably the best part of the Grove; it’s much more interactive, and you can get several bites to eat. There’s a variety of food, from Mexican Trejo Tacos to Brazilian cuisine, and even ice cream and candy to fuel your sweet tooth. All in all, visiting the farmers’ market won’t disappoint you. I trust you’ll be able to find something you’ll like.
It’s time to do some sustainable shopping!
The Melrose Trading Post is just a 5-minute drive from Du-par’s. Although I haven’t been there lately, I remember them having super cool stuff. At the Melrose Trading Post, you’ll find various vendors that sell different types of clothing pieces, the best part being that you can typically negotiate with them. Not only do they have clothes, but also furniture, trinkets, paintings, plants, antiques, and so much more.
It’s truly a magical place where you can get anything. I also love that it’s right on Melrose, so after a long day of shopping around, you can grab lunch or a quick bite.
One of my fave coffee shops on Melrose is actually just a 2-minute walk from the Trading Post. Est. Today, it is such a cool place to get coffee, walk around, and listen to vinyls. Melrose Street is also home to a whole bunch of other stores! And more famously known as The Pink Wall, which went viral during the 2016 cool girl, it-girl era. You should definitely give it a visit if you find yourself nearby.
As you reach the end of your weekend, a fun way you can end it off is by watching the sunset. Elysian Park is a recreational area behind the Dodgers stadium. Heading up here and admiring the sunset behind the beautiful city of LA is truly so refreshing. Even as you’re heading there, from one side of LA to the other, you can see its immense culture that’s presented in various vibrant murals and street art. Watching the sunset at the top of the Elysian part is such a great way to reflect upon your fun weekend and gather yourself before the start of another busy week.
I truly hope these fun spots help guide your next LA trip. From LA’s vibrant culture and diverse community, I know for a fact that there’s something for everyone. Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’ve lived there your whole life, there’s always something new that LA has to offer. No matter how many times I arrive back in LA, there’s something waiting for me. That’s why I love LA so much, and what makes it feel like home.